Police stop mother from selling newborn baby in Anambra
Police operatives in Anambra State have foiled an alleged attempt by a 21-year-old woman to sell her newborn baby girl in Igbariam, Anambra East Local Government Area, preventing what authorities described as a potential case of child trafficking.
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the intervention on Sunday, revealing that officers acted swiftly following intelligence provided by a concerned citizen.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, operatives attached to the Oyi Divisional Police Station carried out the operation on June 19 after receiving credible information about the alleged plan.
The police said officers successfully located the young mother and her infant daughter in Igbariam before any illegal transaction could take place.
“Operatives of the Anambra Police Command attached to Oyi Divisional Station, acting on credible intelligence, on June 19, successfully foiled an alleged attempt by a 21-year-old woman to sell her newborn baby.
“The police promptly secured both the mother and her infant daughter and facilitated their reunion with family members to ensure proper care, protection and support,” Ikenga stated.
Authorities disclosed that the intervention began after a vigilant member of the public raised concerns and alerted law enforcement agencies, enabling officers to respond quickly.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman had allegedly concealed both her pregnancy and the birth of her child from her parents.
Police investigations further indicated that she had left her family residence in Imo State and relocated to Igbariam, where she sought refuge with a friend before the alleged plan was uncovered.
According to the police spokesperson, officers immediately contacted the woman’s parents once the situation was established.
“In the course of the operation, the police immediately contacted the young woman’s parents, who responded without delay,” he said.
Following their arrival, authorities reunited the mother and her newborn daughter with family members to ensure they receive adequate care, supervision and emotional support while investigations continue.
The police emphasised that the decision was taken in the best interest of both mother and child, prioritising their welfare and safety.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, commended members of the public whose vigilance and prompt reporting contributed to the successful intervention.
According to the command, community participation remains critical in preventing crimes involving vulnerable persons, especially children.
The police chief also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting minors from all forms of abuse and exploitation.
Authorities stressed that children remain among the most vulnerable members of society and require collective efforts from communities, families and security agencies to safeguard their rights and wellbeing.
The police further urged residents across the state to remain vigilant and continue collaborating with law enforcement agencies by promptly reporting suspicious activities in their communities.
Officials noted that timely information from citizens often plays a decisive role in preventing crimes before they occur.
The command assured residents that investigations into the matter are ongoing and that every aspect of the incident will be thoroughly examined.
Police authorities also pledged to identify and prosecute any individual found culpable in accordance with the law.
The case has once again drawn attention to the growing concerns surrounding child trafficking, child exploitation and the social pressures that sometimes push vulnerable young mothers into desperate situations.
Experts have consistently emphasised the importance of stronger family support systems, improved access to maternal healthcare, mental health support and community intervention programmes to prevent similar incidents.
Authorities say public awareness, early intervention and stronger community vigilance remain essential tools in protecting children from abuse, neglect and trafficking.
The Anambra Police Command reiterated that safeguarding children remains a top priority and encouraged residents to continue providing useful information that could help prevent future incidents.
As investigations continue, both the mother and her newborn daughter remain under the care and supervision of family members while authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged attempt.
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