Odita Sunday 
Anambra Police Foil Alleged Baby Sale, Reunite Mother And Newborn With Family
By Odita Sunday
A swift intervention by the Anambra State Police Command has foiled an alleged attempt by a 21-year-old woman to sell her newborn baby in Igbariam, leading to the rescue of the infant and the reunification of both mother and child with family members for care and support.
The operation, carried out by operatives attached to Oyi Divisional Headquarters on June 19, 2026, followed actionable intelligence provided by a concerned citizen, according to the Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
Police authorities disclosed that officers moved promptly to the location and secured the young mother alongside her infant daughter before the alleged transaction could take place.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman had allegedly concealed both her pregnancy and delivery from her parents. She was also said to have left her family home in Imo State and taken refuge with a friend residing in Igbariam before the alleged plan was uncovered.
Following the intervention, the Police immediately contacted the woman’s parents, who reportedly arrived without delay. The Command said the mother and child were subsequently reunited with the family to ensure proper care, supervision and emotional support while investigations continue.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the vigilance and sense of civic responsibility shown by the complainant and members of the public whose timely information contributed to the successful operation.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting children against abuse, exploitation, trafficking and neglect, while urging residents to remain vigilant and continue collaborating with security agencies through timely reporting of suspicious activities.
The Command added that investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in accordance with the law.
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