A couple has been arrested by the Akwa Ibom Police Command on suspicion of child trafficking after allegedly selling their six-year-old daughter for N450,000.
Christiana Ibanga and her partner, Inyene Akpan, were detained following the discovery, with the police saying the case was reported by local residents.
Police spokesperson, Timfon John, revealed at a press conference in Uyo that on June 15, 2024, authorities received credible intelligence indicating that a woman had taken her daughter to an undisclosed location.
Acting swiftly on the tip-off, the police arrested the couple in Abuja on January 14.
Upon interrogation, the suspects confessed to selling their child for N450,000 in May 2024, with the help of an accomplice, Saviour Aniedi.
The police also extended their investigation to Aba, Abia State, on January 23, in search of the buyer and the missing child.
John assured that significant progress had been made in the case and that efforts to apprehend other involved individuals were ongoing.
In addition, the police have intensified their efforts to combat drug-related crimes in Akwa Ibom. One female suspect, Happiness George, was arrested for allegedly selling Indian hemp and other illicit substances.
Two other women, Queen Umoren and Joy Chima, were apprehended with drugs at a brothel in Ikot Ebong Village, Odoro Ikot Clan.
The police spokesperson issued a warning to criminals in the state, emphasizing that the full force of the law would be brought to bear on anyone involved in illegal activities.
(Prompt news)