Odita Sunday 
NSCDC Busts Alleged Baby Factory In Lagos, Rescues 28 Victims, Arrests Two Suspects
A suspected baby factory operating in Badagry, Lagos State, has been dismantled by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), who rescued 28 victims, including 17 heavily pregnant women, and arrested two suspects linked to the illicit operation.
The Lagos State Command of the NSCDC said the raid followed a three-week intelligence-driven surveillance in line with the directive of the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for state commands to intensify technology-based operations against criminal activities nationwide.
Addressing journalists in Badagry on Friday, the Lagos State Commandant, Mr. Adedotun Keshinro, disclosed that operatives stormed the hideout during an overnight operation between Wednesday, April 15, and Thursday, April 16, at Okuju, Ilado Road 1, Zone 1 Area of Olorunda, Badagry.
According to him, preliminary findings revealed that the syndicate allegedly used a Facebook account to lure pregnant women willing to sell their babies to interested buyers after delivery for sums ranging from N500,000 to N1 million.
Among those rescued were 17 pregnant women, one adult male, and 10 children, including infants. Authorities said identities of the victims and suspects were being withheld.
The Commandant further revealed that one of the victims reportedly lost her pregnancy due to the poor and unhealthy living conditions at the facility.
Items recovered from the scene included a pumping machine, generator set, six standing fans, two gas cylinders, a burner, two large cooking pots, five Android phones, four large mats, and assorted food items.
Keshinro condemned the operation, describing it as inhumane, barbaric and a disturbing example of desperation for illicit wealth.
He said the suspects and victims had been handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and necessary action.
The NSCDC assured residents that all those involved in the criminal enterprise would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The statement was signed by the Lagos State Civil Defence Public Relations Officer, SC Oluwaseun Abolurin.
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