The Anambra State Police Command has foiled an alleged attempt by a 21-year-old woman to sell her newborn baby girl in Igbariam, Anambra East Local Government Area of the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday in Awka.
According to Ikenga, operatives attached to the Oyi Divisional Police Station acted on credible intelligence on June 19 and successfully intervened before the alleged transaction could take place.
He explained that officers immediately secured both the young mother and her infant daughter before facilitating their reunion with family members to ensure the safety, care and protection of the child.
“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,” the statement said.
The intervention followed information provided by a concerned resident, which led officers to a location in Igbariam where the mother and her newborn baby were found.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman had reportedly concealed her pregnancy and the birth of the child from her parents.
Police further discovered that she had left her family home in Imo State and sought shelter with a friend in Igbariam before the alleged plan was uncovered.
Ikenga said the police immediately contacted the woman’s parents, who responded promptly and travelled to Anambra after being informed of the situation.
Following their arrival, the mother and baby were reunited with the family to ensure adequate care, supervision and emotional support while investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the vigilance of the individual who reported the matter and praised members of the public whose cooperation contributed to the successful intervention.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting children from abuse, trafficking, exploitation and neglect.
Orutugu also urged residents to remain alert and continue partnering with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities within their communities.
The police assured the public that investigations are ongoing to establish the full details of the case and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law.
