Police operatives in Anambra State have rescued a one-week-old baby girl who was allegedly sold for ₦1.7 million in a child trafficking scheme.
According to a statement from the state police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the operation was carried out by officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) based in Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area, after credible intelligence led them to the location.
The baby’s mother, who reportedly received ₦350,000 as her share of the transaction, was arrested along with three women suspected of participating in the sale. The suspects were identified as 62-year-old Elizabeth Okafor, 48-year-old Esther Nweke, and 45-year-old Ngozi Maanfa.
Ikenga said the police stormed a facility known as “Mama Maternity” in Ifite-Awkuzu, where the illegal sale allegedly took place.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has ordered that the case be handed over to the Gender Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka for further investigation.
Authorities said the rescued baby is now in safe custody, while investigations continue to uncover the full extent of the trafficking network.
Source:Africa Publicity
