Anambra Agency Busts Baby-Selling Syndicate, Rescues Infant
In a shocking child trafficking operation exposed by the Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency (SASA), a mother and her accomplice—a self-styled “prophetess”—have been arrested for selling a newborn baby for a staggering ₦2.9 million in Awada, Idemili North Local Government Area.
The biological mother, identified only as Miss Chioma, reportedly received a paltry ₦300,000 from the illegal transaction, while the prime suspect, Precious Uchenna, allegedly pocketed the remaining ₦2.6 million.
How the Crime Unfolded
During interrogation at SASA’s office on Friday, Miss Chioma confessed that shortly after giving birth, she handed over custody of her baby to Uchenna, who facilitated the sale alongside another individual. The “prophetess” also rented an apartment for the young mother after she was reportedly rejected by her family during pregnancy.
However, when confronted, Uchenna could not justify why she kept over 85% of the proceeds, claiming her actions were merely “motivated by a desire to assist” the struggling mother.
“No Private Adoption Allowed”—Agency Warns
Monday Nwokoye, Managing Director of SASA, condemned the act in strong terms:
“This is child trafficking carried out under the guise of religion. No individual has the authority to transfer custody of a child through private arrangements without government agencies and law enforcement involvement.”
He revealed that operatives, working with community members, arrested the suspects at different locations following intelligence reports on illegal baby adoption.
Baby Rescued Unharmed
The agency confirmed that the infant was successfully traced and rescued unharmed. The child is now receiving necessary care while legal proceedings continue.
Government Vows Prosecution
Chinyere Onyekesi, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, reiterated the state’s zero-tolerance stance on child trafficking:
“Governor Soludo’s administration is committed to combating child exploitation. Anyone found culpable will face the full wrath of the law.”
She urged the public to report suspicious activities promptly rather than resolving matters privately.
The suspects have been handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Police Yet to Comment
As of press time, police authorities had not issued an official statement on the matter.
