A 17-year-old male has been apprehended by the Nigerian police on allegations of impregnating over 10 women. The Rivers State Police Command, as reported by the Nigerian news agency PUNCH, uncovered and dismantled a baby factory operating in the Obio/Akpor and Ikwerre local government areas of the state.
In connection with this illicit operation, four individuals have been arrested, and ten pregnant girls were successfully rescued. According to law enforcement, the teenage boy, along with 29-year-old Chigozie Ogbonna, was recruited by a group that established a facility with the intention of producing children for commercial purposes.
The syndicate’s leader, 40-year-old Peace Alikoi, would reportedly care for the children and compensate the mothers with N500,000 (equivalent to KES 138,406). Some infants were also allegedly sold. The police have apprehended 30-year-old Favor Bright in connection with the operation, as reported by Punch.
The police acted promptly upon receiving a tip about the illegal activities, conducting raids on two residences in the Igwuruta and Omagwa communities where the victims were being held. The rescued victims, many of whom were pregnant, have been taken into custody for further investigation.
In possession of the syndicate leader, a Honda Pilot Jeep was discovered by the police. According to Iringe-Koko, the police coordinator, all victims admitted to being enticed into child trafficking due to financial challenges.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, and rigorous efforts are underway to locate and apprehend those who have purchased children already sold. Iringa-Koko emphasized the determination of law enforcement to ensure that all individuals involved in this reprehensible act face justice and are held accountable for their actions.
