The Edo State Taskforce against Human Trafficking has arrested a 48-year-old man, Anthony Igbinogun, and his girlfriend, Joy Umukoro, 28, for allegedly selling their one-month-old baby to buy drugs.
The suspects were arrested alonside their friend, Precious James, 26, who linked them up to the baby’s buyer in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Head of the Investigation Unit of the Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking, Abigail Ihonre, while briefing journalists in Benin City, disclosed that the baby was sold for N1.7 million adding that investigation was ongoing to rescue the child and apprehend the buyer.
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Ihonre said, “Our investigations revealed that Joy Umukoro, the mother of the baby, delivered the baby in April 2023, and conspired with her boyfriend to sell their baby for N1.7m. She has confessed to the crime.
“Investigation into the case continues as we intensify efforts to locate the buyer and the baby as the matter will be charged to court latest on Monday, June 26, 2023, so that everyone culpable is made to face the wrath of the law for their criminal activities.
“The suspects said they carried out the dastardly act because they couldn’t take care of the baby. These people are alleged drug addicts and when it was clear that they couldn’t take care of the baby, they decided to sell him.
“The penalty for trafficking is about seven years in prison. I urge those that can’t take care of their babies not to sell them but bring such to the office of the Edo State Taskforce against Human Trafficking as we collaborate with the Ministry of Gender and Women Affairs or take the baby to other agencies that take care of children. Selling that child is not a good option as the outcome may end you in prison.”
