In a shocking revelation, seven suspected human traffickers have been arrested in Calabar, Cross River State, for allegedly attempting to sell a newborn baby for N3 million.
The arrests were made by troops of the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), following a tip-off about the activities of a suspected trafficking syndicate operating in the area.
According to Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 13 Brigade, the intelligence-led operation was conducted on Tuesday at the Glorious Amazing Grace Hospital in the Ikot Ekpo general area of Calabar Municipality.
The suspects were apprehended while allegedly negotiating the sale of a day-old baby boy.
“The act constitutes a grave violation of Nigerian law and a serious abuse of the fundamental human rights of the child,” Sokoya said in a statement on Wednesday.
Those arrested include Mrs. Glory Emmanuel, 54; Mr. Anthony Bassey, 35; Miss Uduak John, 27; Mrs. Deborah Edet, 35; Mrs. Ruth Asoquo, 35; Mrs. Frada Donald, 35, all from Cross River State, and Miss Blessing Okon, 23, from neighbouring Akwa Ibom State.
The suspects were immediately handed over to NAPTIP officials along with relevant exhibits for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with Nigerian law. The rescued infant has been placed under the care of appropriate authorities.
Sokoya emphasised that the Nigerian Army remains committed to working closely with civil authorities and relevant agencies to combat human trafficking, child abuse, and other criminal activities in its area of responsibility.
He also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, noting that such cooperation is vital for ensuring the safety and security of lives and property
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