The Ogun State Police Command has busted a suspected baby factory in Mowe, rescuing two pregnant women and four children from the facility.
The operation, which took place in the early hours of Monday, August 24, was carried out at Toluwalase Street in Abaren Village, near Gbarinmole, following intelligence reportedly gathered over suspected human trafficking and illegal adoption activities.
Two Pregnant Women Rescued
According to the police, the two women rescued from the facility were 23-year-old Ilesanmi Foluke, who was seven months pregnant, and 20-year-old Ejekwa Melody, who was eight months pregnant.
Four children: two boys and two girls, were also rescued during the operation.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Six Suspects Arrested
Ogun Police said six suspects were arrested during the raid.
They were identified as Florence Glory Ogbona, 58; Magdalene Julius, 63; Chidike Egwuonwu, 40; Onyechu Chidike, 35; Stephen Ogbona, 39; and a nurse, Oseni Kusamotu Idaya.
Read also: EFCC Arrests ‘Fake Contractor’ Accused of Defrauding BDC Operators of $12,000
The suspects are expected to assist investigators in uncovering the alleged operations of the facility and identifying others who may be connected to the suspected syndicate.
Police Discover Missing Newborn at Nearby Hospital
Further intelligence reportedly led police officers to a nearby hospital, where they discovered another disturbing development.
According to the police, 26-year-old Blessing Bright Effiong had given birth to a baby boy on August 20 and was receiving medical attention at the facility.
However, her newborn was reportedly missing.
“The infant’s location remains unknown. That is why the nurse on duty was detained as we work to recover the child,” Babaseyi said.
The police said investigations are ongoing to determine the whereabouts of the newborn and establish whether the case is connected to the suspected baby factory.
Case Transferred To State CID
The entire case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation.
Detectives are expected to investigate the alleged trafficking network, trace the missing baby and determine the roles played by those arrested.
CP Vows to Tackle Baby Trafficking
The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Bode Ojajuni, commended the officers involved in the operation and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling human trafficking, illegal adoption and the sale of children.
The police also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide useful information that could help security agencies uncover criminal activities.
The investigation continues as authorities work to establish the full extent of the alleged baby factory operation and recover the missing newborn.
