In a significant operation, police operatives have dismantled a clandestine ‘baby factory’ in Aba, Abia State, rescuing 16 pregnant women and 8 children. According to Police Public Relations Officer Moureen Chinaka, the raid occurred on Thursday night following credible intelligence about the illicit activities at the facility.
The operation targeted a four-story building with 10 flats and an adjacent structure within the same compound. “We were able to capture 16 of them, all pregnant. One of the facilitators, Onyinyechi, was also pregnant, and another, Ekpene (male), who resides in the compound, was arrested,” stated the police.
The owner of the baby factory was among the suspects apprehended, underscoring the depth of the operation. Police are actively pursuing the remaining members of the syndicate who managed to escape.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, lauded the police for their swift action, emphasizing the importance of rescuing vulnerable individuals from exploitation. “Today, we are celebrating International Women’s Day, and we are receiving back women ‘social mothers’ on their path to destruction,” she remarked.
Mrs. Felix affirmed the commitment of the Ministry, in collaboration with the Governor’s Office, to provide support and care for the rescued women during the investigation process. “We promise to keep them in good custody while investigation is still on,” she assured.
This rescue operation highlights the ongoing battle against human trafficking and exploitation, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and collaboration among law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders.
