AWKA: Police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Anambra State Command have rescued a one-week-old baby girl who was allegedly sold for ₦1.7 million.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the disturbing incident in a statement on Thursday.
He revealed that the baby’s mother, who reportedly received ₦350,000 from the transaction, and three other women suspected to be involved in the sale and purchase of the infant, have been arrested.
The suspects were identified as Elizabeth Okafor (62), Esther Nweke (48), and Ngozi Maanfa (45).
According to the police, the operation followed an intelligence report that led the RRS team to a facility known as Mama Maternity located in Ifite-Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Ikenga disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has directed that the case be transferred to the Gender Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka for further, discreet investigation.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to clamping down on child trafficking syndicates across the state, urging residents to report suspicious activities involving the illegal sale or adoption of infants.
