Security operatives in Cross River State have dismantled a suspected child trafficking syndicate allegedly involved in operating a fake pregnancy and baby sale scheme, leading to the arrest of four women and the rescue of a newborn baby.
The operation was reportedly carried out by the Cross River State Homeland Safety and Security Agency (HSSA) in collaboration with other security agencies following intelligence gathering on the activities of the suspected syndicate.
According to officials, the operation began after three women were intercepted in Akpabuyo Local Government Area while transporting a newborn wrapped in a shawl. The suspects reportedly claimed they were taking the baby to Obubra Local Government Area, but inconsistencies in their accounts prompted further investigations.
The investigation led security operatives to a private maternity facility allegedly operated by one Umoh Effiong Edet, popularly known as “Glory.” Authorities allege that the facility served as the base for a sophisticated child trafficking network.
Investigators claim the syndicate deceived women seeking children by creating the impression that they were pregnant through a fraudulent process. Meanwhile, vulnerable pregnant women were allegedly sheltered until they gave birth, after which their newborn babies were unlawfully handed over to paying clients, who were then presented as the biological parents.
The four suspects identified by authorities include Mary Solomon, 42; Patience Akumuruk, 46; Juliet Efut, 43; and Umoh Effiong Edet, the alleged operator of the maternity home.
The rescued newborn has been placed in protective custody, while the suspects have been handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) through its Operation Okwok office in Calabar for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to identify the biological mother of the rescued baby and uncover other victims who may have been affected by the alleged trafficking operation.
The Director-General (South) of the Cross River State Homeland Safety and Security Agency, Chief Michael Orok Nsan, commended the security personnel involved in the operation and urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to help combat child trafficking and other organised crimes.
Officials also disclosed that investigations are continuing and that additional arrests may follow as authorities work to dismantle the entire network.
