A suspected baby-selling syndicate operating in Cross River State has been uncovered by security operatives, leading to the arrest of four suspects and the rescue of a newborn baby believed to have been sold for ₦3 million.
The operation was carried out by the Cross River State Homeland Safety and Security Agency (HSSA) in Akpabuyo Local Government Area after intelligence reports pointed to the activities of the group.
According to reports, the suspects were arrested after security operatives intercepted a commercial taxi carrying the newborn baby around the Maternity Junction area in Akpabuyo. Their arrest exposed what investigators described as a secret child trafficking operation that allegedly used fake pregnancies to deceive families and members of the public.
The four suspects were identified as Mary Solomon, 42, Patience Akumuruk, 46, Juliet Efut, 43, and Umoh Effiong Edet, also known as "Glory," who allegedly operated a delivery home where the illegal activities took place. They were arrested on June 24 during the security operation.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the group allegedly ran a fake pregnancy scheme. Women who wanted babies were allegedly made to pretend they were pregnant for several months. During that period, another woman who was actually pregnant would reportedly be hidden in a secret location until she gave birth. After delivery, the newborn would allegedly be handed over to the paying client, making people believe the baby belonged to her.
Investigators said the rescued baby was allegedly sold for ₦3 million. However, the identity and whereabouts of the baby's biological mother are still unknown, and authorities are working to trace her.
Following their arrest, the suspects were handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) through its Operation Okwok office in Calabar for further investigation and possible prosecution.
A senior NAPTIP official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that one of the women arrested may also have been a victim. According to the official, the woman allegedly paid ₦3 million believing she was receiving legitimate fertility treatment and had given birth to her own child, not knowing she had become part of an alleged baby trafficking scheme.
The official also said investigators believe the network is larger than the four people arrested. Efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other members who may still be involved in the operation.
Authorities have assured the public that investigations will continue until everyone connected with the alleged child trafficking network is brought to justice.
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