Ibom Focus
Many Arrested Over Attempt To Sell Newborn For N3Million
Troops of the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), have arrested seven suspected human traffickers in Calabar, Cross River State.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Major Yemi Sokoya, the arrests followed an intelligence-led operation carried out on Tuesday in Calabar Municipality Local Government Area, after the Brigade received what it described as detailed and credible intelligence on the activities of a suspected human trafficking syndicate operating in the area.
Acting on the information, troops conducted a coordinated raid on Glorious Amazing Grace Hospital, located in the Ikot Ekpo general area of Calabar Municipality.
According to the Army, the suspects were apprehended at the facility while negotiations were allegedly ongoing to sell a day-old baby boy for N3 million. The Army described the act as a grave violation of Nigerian law and a serious abuse of fundamental human rights, particularly the rights of children.
Those arrested were identified as Mrs Glory Emmanuel, 54; Mr Anthony Bassey, 35; Miss Uduak John, 27; Mrs Deborah Edet, 35; Mrs Ruth Asoquo, 35; and Mrs Frada Donald, 35, all from Cross River State. Another suspect, Miss Blessing Okon, 23, is from neighbouring Akwa Ibom State. Following their arrest, the suspects were handed over to officials of NAPTIP along with relevant exhibits for further investigation and prosecution in line with existing laws and established procedures.
The rescued infant has also been placed under the care of the appropriate authorities. Sokoya said the Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with civil authorities and relevant agencies to combat human trafficking, child abuse, and other criminal activities within its area of responsibility.
The Army also called on members of the public to continue to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information, noting that such cooperation is vital to enhancing the safety and security of lives and property.
