Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have foiled an alleged plot by a 21-year-old woman to sell her newborn baby, rescuing both mother and child before reuniting them with their family for care and support.
The intervention, which followed credible intelligence, was carried out by officers attached to the Oyi Divisional Headquarters on June 19, 2026, at Igbariam in Anambra State.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, officers acted swiftly after receiving information from a concerned citizen, leading them to a location where the young mother and her infant daughter were found.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman allegedly concealed both her pregnancy and delivery from her parents before leaving her family home in Imo State to seek refuge with a friend in Igbariam, where the alleged plan was uncovered.
The statement said the police immediately contacted the woman’s parents, who arrived without delay, after which the mother and her baby were reunited with the family to ensure proper care, protection and emotional support while investigations continue.
Reacting to the development, Ikioye Orutugu commended the vigilance of the complainant and members of the public whose timely information led to the successful intervention.
“The vigilance and sense of responsibility demonstrated by the complainant and other members of the public contributed significantly to the successful intervention,” the Commissioner said.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding children against abuse, exploitation, trafficking and neglect, urging residents to remain vigilant and continue collaborating with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.
The police also assured the public that investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law.
