Army and NAPTIP Foil Sale of Day-Old Baby for N3 Million in Calabar
In a significant crackdown on human trafficking, the Headquarters 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), has arrested seven suspected human traffickers in Calabar, Cross River State. The operation, which took place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, was based on detailed and credible intelligence received by troops regarding a suspected human trafficking syndicate operating in the area.
Intelligence-Led Operation Leads to Arrests
Major Yemi Sokoya, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, disclosed in a statement that the suspects were apprehended while negotiating to sell a day-old baby boy for the sum of N3 million. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops conducted a coordinated raid on Glorious Amazing Grace Hospital, located in the Ikot Ekpo general area of Calabar Municipality.
During the raid, the suspects were caught in the act of negotiating the sale of the infant, an action that constitutes a grave violation of the law and a serious breach of fundamental human rights. The operation highlights the effectiveness of joint efforts between military and civil authorities in combating such heinous crimes.
Suspects and Their Backgrounds
The arrested individuals include:
- Mrs Glory Emmanuel, 54 years old
- Mr Anthony Bassey, 35 years old
- Miss Uduak John, 27 years old
- Mrs Deborah Edet, 35 years old
- Mrs Ruth Asoquo, 35 years old
- Mrs Frada Donald, 35 years old
- Miss Blessing Okon, 23 years old
Six of the suspects are from Cross River State, while Miss Blessing Okon hails from Akwa Ibom State. Their arrest underscores the cross-border nature of human trafficking networks in Nigeria.
Handover to NAPTIP and Care for the Infant
Following the arrest, the suspects, along with relevant exhibits, were handed over to officials of NAPTIP for further investigation and necessary legal action. This transfer is in line with extant laws and established procedures, ensuring that the perpetrators face justice through the appropriate legal channels.
The rescued day-old baby boy has been placed under the care of appropriate authorities, who will provide the necessary support and protection for the infant's well-being. This step is crucial in safeguarding the child from further harm and ensuring a stable future.
Commitment to Combating Human Trafficking
The Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army has reiterated its unwavering commitment to working in synergy with civil authorities and relevant agencies to combat human trafficking, child abuse, and other criminal activities within its area of responsibility. This operation serves as a testament to the effectiveness of such collaborations in addressing security challenges.
Major Sokoya emphasized the importance of public support in these efforts, stating, "Members of the public are encouraged to continue to support security agencies by providing timely, credible, and actionable information to enhance the safety and security of lives and property." This call to action highlights the role of community involvement in preventing and addressing crimes like human trafficking.
This incident in Calabar sheds light on the persistent issue of human trafficking in Nigeria, particularly involving vulnerable infants. It underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among security agencies, government bodies, and the public to eradicate such practices and protect the rights of all citizens, especially children.
