ANAMBRA AGENCY ARRESTS MOTHER, ACCOMPLICE FOR ALLEGEDLY SELLING BABY FOR ₦2.9 MILLION

The Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency (SASA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, has arrested a woman and her alleged accomplice for allegedly selling a newborn baby for ₦2.9 million.

The suspects were arrested in Awada, Idemili North Local Government Area, following intelligence reports of an illegal child adoption scheme.

During interrogation, the baby's mother, identified simply as Chioma, admitted that shortly after giving birth, her accomplice, identified as Precious Uchenna, allegedly took custody of the baby and arranged the illegal sale.

She claimed she received ₦300,000 from the transaction, while the alleged accomplice kept the remaining money and later rented an apartment for her.

The prime suspect, who reportedly described herself as a prophetess, claimed she acted to assist the young mother because of her difficult situation but failed to explain why she retained most of the money from the alleged sale.

SASA Managing Director, Monday Nwokoye, described the incident as child trafficking disguised as religious assistance and warned that no individual has the legal authority to transfer the custody of a child through private arrangements.

He urged residents to report suspicious activities, stressing that the state government maintains zero tolerance for child trafficking and other criminal activities.

The agency confirmed that the baby was successfully traced and rescued unharmed and is currently receiving appropriate care.

Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Chinyere Onyekesi, also condemned the incident, saying adoption and child custody matters must follow legal procedures.

She disclosed that the suspects have been handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution, reaffirming the state government's commitment to combating child trafficking and protecting children's rights.