Ondo Police Thwart Alleged Money Ritual Plot, Rescue 10-Year-Old Boy

The Ondo State Police Command has successfully intervened in a chilling case of attempted ritualism, rescuing a 10-year-old boy from a mother and son duo in the Ile-Oluji area. The suspects, identified as 53-year-old Maria and her 28-year-old son, Adewale, were taken into custody following reports of their alleged involvement in a money ritual scheme.

Details of the Operation
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the development in a statement released on Saturday. He disclosed that the arrests were made on December 27, 2025, after the command’s SWAT Tactical Team acted on credible intelligence provided by vigilant members of the public.

The operation took place in Ile-Oluji, the headquarters of the Ile-Oluji/Oke Igbo Local Government Area, where residents had raised alarms regarding suspicious movements linked to a potential ritual.

Investigation and Current Status
According to the police, preliminary findings suggest that the mother and son had conspired to hire a herbalist to perform a money ritual using the young child. Upon their apprehension, both suspects reportedly provided confessional statements to the authorities.

The rescued 10-year-old has been moved to a hospital for a comprehensive medical examination and necessary care. While the suspects remain in police custody, investigations are still active to ensure all parties involved in the plot are brought to justice.