Anambra Police Foil Alleged Sale of Newborn by 21-Year-Old Mother
By Chizoba Njaka
As part of ongoing efforts to combat crime and enhance public safety in Anambra State, operatives of the Anambra State Police Command attached to the Oyi Divisional Headquarters have on June 19, foiled an alleged attempt by a 21-year-old woman to sell her newborn daughter.
In a statement issued to journalists in Awka, the Police Command disclosed that the intervention followed credible intelligence and information provided by a concerned citizen. Acting on the tip-off, officers traced the suspect to a location in Igbariam, where she was found in the company of the infant.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman allegedly concealed both her pregnancy and childbirth from her parents. She reportedly left her family home in Imo State and relocated to Igbariam, where she stayed with a friend before the alleged plan was uncovered.
The Police promptly contacted the woman's parents, who subsequently travelled to Igbariam and were reunited with their daughter and grandchild. According to the Command, the reunion was facilitated to ensure the infant receives adequate care, protection, and emotional support while investigations continue.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the vigilance and sense of responsibility demonstrated by the informant and other members of the public whose timely intervention contributed to the safe rescue of the child.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding children from abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and neglect, while urging residents to promptly report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
The Anambra State Police Command stated that investigations into the matter are ongoing and assured that anyone found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.