Mother, health facility owner arrested over sale of baby for N2m in Oyo

The Oyo State Police Command has rescued a one-month-old baby girl allegedly sold for N2 million and arrested two suspects, including the child’s mother and the owner of the health facility where she was born.

The incident reportedly occurred in Ido Local Government Area of Ibadan, with the police saying investigations were ongoing to track down other individuals suspected of involvement in the alleged child trafficking.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the development in a statement on Friday.

According to the police, the case was reported on October 15 by Mary Amos, a resident of the Ogunwade area of Ido, who raised the alarm over the disappearance of her granddaughter.

During the investigation, the child’s mother, identified as Cecilia, allegedly implicated the 40-year-old owner of the health facility and another suspect. She reportedly told investigators that the duo lured her into the arrangement and facilitated the sale of the baby to a woman identified as Odunayo.

Police investigations indicated that the alleged transaction was worth N2 million, with Cecilia said to have received N1 million, while the other two individuals allegedly collected N500,000 each.

Following the investigation, operatives rescued the baby girl and arrested Adeleke. The police said efforts were continuing to apprehend Folawewo and ensure that everyone allegedly connected to the incident was brought to justice.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding children and other vulnerable members of society, urging residents to promptly report suspected cases of child trafficking and related crimes.

“The Oyo State Police Command reiterates its commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable persons and urges members of the public to report suspected cases of child trafficking and related offences promptly,” the statement said.