Army, NAPTIP bust baby trafficking syndicate in Cross River, arrest seven

 

Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with operatives of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), have foiled an attempt to sell a newborn baby and arrested seven suspected human traffickers in Cross River State.

The suspects were apprehended during an intelligence-led operation carried out by troops of Headquarters 13 Brigade on Tuesday in Calabar Municipality Local Government Area.

Confirming the arrest in a statement, the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 13 Brigade, Captain Yemi Sokoya, said the operation was based on credible intelligence on the activities of a human trafficking syndicate operating within the area.

According to him, the troops swiftly conducted a coordinated raid on Glorious Amazing Grace Hospital, located in the Ikot Ekpo area of Calabar, where the suspects were arrested while negotiating to sell a day-old baby boy for the sum of three million naira (₦3 million).

Sokoya described the act as a grave violation of the law and a serious breach of fundamental human rights.

Those arrested were identified as Glory Emmanuel (54), Anthony Bassey (35), Uduak John (27), Deborah Edet (35), Ruth Asoquo (35), and Frada Donald (35), all residents of Cross River State, as well as Blessing Okon (23) from Akwa Ibom State.

He disclosed that the suspects, along with relevant exhibits, have been handed over to NAPTIP for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the law.

The rescued infant, he added, has been placed under the care of appropriate authorities.

Sokoya reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to working closely with civil authorities and relevant agencies to combat human trafficking, child abuse, and other criminal activities within its area of responsibility.

He urged members of the public to continue to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information to enhance the safety and security of lives and property.