Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have intervened in an alleged attempt by a 21-year-old woman to sell her newborn baby in Igbariam, Anambra East Local Government Area, rescuing both mother and child and reuniting them with their family.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday, explaining that the operation was triggered by credible intelligence provided by a concerned citizen.
According to the statement, officers attached to the Oyi Divisional Headquarters acted promptly on the information and traced the young woman to a location in Igbariam, where she was found with her infant daughter.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman allegedly concealed both her pregnancy and childbirth from her parents. Police further gathered that she left her family home in Imo State and relocated to Igbariam, where she stayed with a friend before the alleged plan to sell the baby was uncovered.
Following the intervention, the Police contacted the woman’s parents and relatives, who responded immediately. Both mother and child were subsequently reunited with their family to ensure they receive proper care, protection, supervision, and emotional support while investigations continue.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, commended the individual whose timely report led to the successful intervention. He described the action as a reflection of the vital role community members play in crime prevention and the protection of vulnerable persons.
The Commissioner also praised other residents who provided useful information, emphasizing that security remains a collective responsibility that requires cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public.
Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable persons, CP Orutugu warned against child trafficking, exploitation, abuse, and neglect, assuring that the Police would continue to respond decisively to such cases.
He further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The Police Command stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident, adding that anyone found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
