Police bust child trafficking syndicate, recover stolen newborn in Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom Police Disrupt Child Trafficking Syndicate, Recover Abducted Newborn

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has dismantled a child trafficking syndicate and successfully recovered a newborn baby that had been abducted from his parents.

In a statement released on Friday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Timfon John, reported that the baby was sold for ₦145,000 without the father’s knowledge or consent.

Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the case. They are Ekemini Godwin, 19, Endurance Sunday, 26, and Alice Emmanuel, 50, all of whom reside in Nkwot Ikono Village.

On May 13, 2026, around 7 p.m., police operatives acted on credible intelligence and worked alongside relevant stakeholders to apprehend the suspects for their alleged roles in child trafficking and conspiracy.

The investigation began when a complainant, identified as Sifon, reported that his wife had given birth to a boy on May 7. Shortly thereafter, the suspects allegedly conspired to sell the newborn to one Eno Peter of Ikpe Atai Village.

Following the report, police launched an immediate operation that resulted in the arrests and recovery of the baby.

During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to their involvement in the crime. Investigators are now expanding their probe to identify others connected to this trafficking network, which may extend both within and outside the state.

Additionally, police conducted a raid on a suspected criminal hideout in Efa Village, Etinan Local Government Area on the same day.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the suspects are expected to face charges in court soon.

Commissioner of Police Baba Azare has urged the public to provide the police with any useful information and assured residents of their continued security.

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