The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a medical doctor, a traditional birth attendant and the parents of a newborn baby over the alleged sale of the infant for N2.5 million.
Police investigations revealed that the 28-year-old mother and her boyfriend allegedly decided not to keep the child after birth and began seeking individuals who could facilitate the baby’s sale.
According to findings, the couple was linked to a prospective buyer in the Ikorodu area through intermediaries who allegedly coordinated the transaction.
Sources disclosed that the expectant mother was initially taken to a traditional birth attendant for delivery.
However, complications during labour reportedly necessitated her transfer to a private hospital in Ikorodu.
At the hospital, a medical doctor, said to be the principal suspect in the case, allegedly performed a Caesarean section that saved both mother and child.
Investigators alleged that arrangements for the baby’s sale were finalised shortly after delivery within the hospital premises.
The newborn was subsequently handed over to an unidentified buyer following the payment of N2.5 million, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the suspected purchaser.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Moshood Jimoh, has directed that the case be transferred from the Area E Command, Festac, to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a comprehensive investigation.
The matter, which borders on allegations of conspiracy, child stealing and human trafficking, is currently being handled by the Anti-Human Trafficking and Gender Unit of the SCID under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the unit.
Police authorities said investigations are continuing to uncover all those involved in the alleged illegal transaction and ensure that those found culpable are brought to justice.