The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has discovered a suspected baby trafficking ring in Cross River. According to Mr. Jacob Oba, Head of Operations, NAPTIP, Cross River Command, the agency intercepted several women allegedly involved in acquiring newborn babies through deceptive means. The operation was uncovered following an investigation into suspicious activities in the region.
Oba revealed that three women in Obubura claimed to be pregnant with "cryptic pregnancies," which they said could not be detected. However, it was discovered that they had arranged with midwives to obtain newborn babies. One of the women, from Akwa Ibom, allegedly stole a week-old baby girl and sold the child to one of the women who claimed to have a cryptic pregnancy for N3 million.
Investigations have confirmed that the sold baby's biological mother was in Akwa Ibom, and the week-old child had allegedly been stolen. The women involved are also suspected of operating baby factories, although the particular baby in the case was not obtained from the suspect's facility. The head of operations stated that the case came to the attention of security personnel after community members stopped a vehicle carrying the women and a baby.
The main suspect claimed to be the baby's mother but could not breastfeed the child when security personnel asked her to do so. The woman and the two others were taken for questioning, through which the alleged supplier of the child was subsequently arrested and confessed to selling the baby, leading to further investigation by NAPTIP.
Oba disclosed that the suspects were arrested on June 22 but had to be properly investigated before the matter was brought before the public. He added that the matter would be charged to court, with further proceedings expected in October. The NAPTIP official emphasized that the agency would continue to investigate and prosecute those involved in human trafficking.
The discovery of the suspected baby trafficking ring has raised concerns about the prevalence of human trafficking in Nigeria. NAPTIP has been working to combat human trafficking, including child trafficking, in the country. The agency's efforts have led to the rescue of several victims and the prosecution of traffickers.
The case highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public to combat human trafficking. The Nigerian government has implemented measures to prevent and combat human trafficking, including the establishment of NAPTIP. The agency's work is crucial in protecting vulnerable individuals, including children, from exploitation.
Key points
- Three women were arrested for allegedly acquiring newborn babies through fraudulent pregnancy claims.
- The suspected baby trafficking ring was uncovered following an investigation into suspicious activities in Cross River.
- The matter will be charged to court, with further proceedings expected in October.
