The Anambra State Police Command says it has foiled an alleged attempt by a 21-year-old woman to sell her newborn baby in Igbariam, Oyi Local Government Area of the state.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed in a statement on Sunday that operatives attached to the Oyi Divisional Headquarters acted on credible intelligence on June 19 and rescued the woman and her infant daughter before facilitating their reunion with family members.
According to the statement, the operation followed information provided by a concerned resident, leading officers to a location in Igbariam where the young mother and her baby were found. Preliminary findings indicated that the woman allegedly concealed her pregnancy and delivery from her parents after leaving her family home in Imo State to stay with a friend in Igbariam.
Ikenga said the police immediately contacted the woman’s parents, who arrived promptly. The mother and child were subsequently reunited with the family to ensure they receive proper care, protection and emotional support while investigations continue.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the vigilance of the informant and members of the public whose timely intervention aided the operation. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting children from abuse, exploitation, trafficking and neglect.
The police spokesperson added that investigations were ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and assured that anyone found culpable would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
