By Sunny A. David, Awka
The Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency (SASA) in Anambra State has arrested a self-acclaimed prophetess, Precious Uchenna, and some of her alleged accomplices over the suspected trafficking of a newborn baby in Awada, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state.
The agency said the suspects were arrested following an investigation into the alleged sale of the newborn for ₦2.9 million.
The baby was subsequently traced and rescued unharmed by security operatives.
According to SASA, the biological mother of the child, identified simply as Miss Chioma, told investigators that shortly after giving birth, she entrusted her newborn to Prophetess Uchenna under circumstances she believed were safe.
However, the mother allegedly became unable to gain access to her child and was later informed that the baby had been handed over to another woman who reportedly paid ₦2.9 million for the infant.
Miss Chioma further alleged that following the transaction, the prophetess gave her ₦300,000 and rented an apartment for her, while she remained unaware of the whereabouts of her child.
During interrogation, SASA said Uchenna allegedly admitted to participating in the illegal sale of the baby alongside other suspects.
The suspects were questioned by the agency’s Women and Child Trafficking Investigation Unit, headed by Ambassador Karen James.
SASA said the matter had been transferred to the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs for further investigation and appropriate legal action, while the suspects were handed over to relevant investigative authorities for continuation of the case.
The rescued newborn was said to be safe and receiving necessary care as investigations continue.
Speaking on the development, SASA Managing Director, Hon. Monday Nwokoye, expressed concern over criminal activities allegedly carried out under the guise of religious organisations.
Nwokoye urged residents to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that timely information could help prevent crimes and save lives.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Anambra State Government under Governor Chukwuma Soludo to tackling child trafficking, kidnapping, cultism, touting and other criminal activities across the state.
The SASA boss also called on parents and guardians to remain vigilant and carefully scrutinise individuals and organisations entrusted with the care of their children.
He stressed that child trafficking is a serious criminal offence that violates children’s rights and causes lasting harm to families, warning that religious organisations or any other institutions must not be used as a cover for criminal activities.
He further encouraged residents to support law enforcement agencies by providing useful information whenever they notice suspicious activities in their communities.
