The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has successfully dismantled a child trafficking syndicate operating within the state, leading to the arrest of three female suspects allegedly involved in the illegal sale of a newborn baby.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfom John, the case began after a complainant reported that his wife gave birth to a baby boy on May 7, but the newborn was allegedly sold shortly after delivery for N145,000.Acting on the report, police operatives swiftly launched an investigation which led to the arrest of the suspects on Wednesday around 7:00pm in Uyo.The police also confirmed that the newborn baby boy was successfully recovered alive during the operation.

During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to their involvement in the crime, while investigations are still ongoing to uncover and apprehend other members of the trafficking network linked to the case.The Police Command described the operation as part of its commitment to intelligence-led policing and fighting organised crime in the state.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, reaffirmed the command’s determination to sustain aggressive action against criminal activities, especially those involving vulnerable persons such as infants.Authorities also noted that further efforts are being made to dismantle any wider syndicate network connected to the incident.

The case has raised fresh concerns about child safety and illegal adoption practices in the region, prompting calls for stronger monitoring of maternity-related activities and community vigilance to prevent similar occurrences in the future.The rescued baby has been secured while legal proceedings against the suspects are expected to continue as investigations progress.