An 18-year-old girl reported missing by her family in Ondo State has been found in neighbouring Ekiti State after police investigations revealed that she had travelled with her boyfriend without informing her relatives, sources familiar with the case told Journalist.
The teenager, identified as Esther, was recovered during an intelligence-led operation conducted by operatives of the Ondo State Police Command after her family reported her disappearance.
The matter was reported to the police on May 20, 2026, by the girl’s mother, Mrs. Felicia, who told investigators that her daughter had left home for an unknown destination and remained unreachable for about five days.
The development reportedly triggered concerns among family members, who sought police intervention after unsuccessful attempts to establish contact with her or determine her whereabouts
It was disclosed that detectives attached to the Ikare Division immediately commenced investigations, combining intelligence gathering, technical analysis and tracking efforts to locate the missing teenager.
Their investigation eventually led them to a village near Ida Farm in Ekiti State after operatives reportedly traced signals from the girl’s mobile phone to the area.
A police team subsequently moved to the location, where Esther was found in the company of one Rashidi Alabi of Iboropa Akoko.
The suspect was taken into custody, while the teenager was safely recovered and reunited with her family.
Sources familiar with the investigation told newsmen that inquiries conducted by detectives confirmed that the pair were involved in a romantic relationship.
The suspect reportedly informed investigators that he and the teenager had travelled together to Ekiti State for farming activities without notifying her family or obtaining their consent.
Following the conclusion of investigations, the matter was charged to court for legal determination.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Command, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, confirmed the incident and the recovery of the missing teenager.
DSP Abayomi said the successful operation underscored the command’s commitment to responding promptly to distress reports and protecting residents across the state.
He also advised parents and guardians to maintain close communication with their children and wards, while urging young people to keep their families informed about their movements and whereabouts to prevent avoidable panic and security concerns.
The police spokesman further encouraged members of the public to promptly report suspicious activities and security-related concerns to the nearest police formation.
