The Anambra State Police Command has foiled an alleged attempt by a 21-year-old woman to sell her newborn baby girl in Igbariam, Anambra East Local Government Area, after acting on intelligence provided by a concerned resident.
Police operatives attached to the Oyi Divisional Police Station reportedly intervened on June 19, leading to the rescue of both the young mother and her infant daughter.
According to the command, officers immediately secured the pair and initiated steps to reconnect them with family members to ensure proper care and protection.
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Preliminary investigations indicated that the woman had allegedly concealed both her pregnancy and delivery from her parents.
Investigators further discovered that she had left her family home in Imo State and moved to Igbariam, where she stayed with a friend before the alleged plan was uncovered.
The police said they quickly contacted the woman’s parents, who travelled to Anambra and reunited with their daughter and grandchild.
Authorities noted that the arrangement was made to provide adequate care, supervision and emotional support for both mother and child while investigations continue.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, praised the vigilance of the citizen whose information led to the intervention and commended members of the public for supporting law enforcement efforts.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting children from abuse, exploitation, trafficking and neglect, urging residents to remain alert and promptly report suspicious activities.
The incident has once again drawn attention to growing concerns over child trafficking and illegal baby-sale networks in parts of the country.
Security agencies and child welfare advocates have repeatedly warned that economic hardship, social pressure and lack of support for vulnerable young mothers can create conditions that expose children to exploitation.
Although police have not disclosed whether any prospective buyer has been identified, investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether other individuals were involved.
The command said anyone found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
