Traffickers’ Web Of Deceit: Gombe LG Officials Accused Of Conspiring In N400,000 Baby Sale Scandal

Traffickers’ Web Of Deceit: Gombe LG Officials Accused Of Conspiring In N400,000 Baby Sale Scandal

In a shocking revelation, an alleged child trafficking syndicate has been apprehended by the Gombe State Police Command, shedding light on a disturbing connection between traffickers and local government officials…..CONTINUE READING

The suspects, including Mrs. Tina Raphael and Ukamaka Ugo, were arrested over their involvement in a case of suspected child trafficking, where babies were allegedly sold for N400,000 with the connivance of government officials.

In an interview with Saturday Ireporteronline, 60-year-old Tina Raphael claimed she adopted a baby from Khadijah, a suspected trafficker, for the sum of N400,000. She stated that her intention was to provide care for the ailing child who was suffering from malnutrition. Raphael, however, insisted that she was not buying the baby but seeking legal documentation for custody.

Ukamaka Ugo, another resident of Gombe, also from Anambra State, asserted her innocence, claiming that Khadijah promised to give her a baby for a fee when they met in a market. Ugo stated that she paid N50,000 for the baby’s medical needs and was under the impression that the child’s parents willingly handed over custody.

The parents of the child denied selling their baby to Ugo, highlighting the discrepancies in the suspects’ accounts. The father of the baby revealed that they involved the police when Khadijah’s actions became suspicious, emphasizing that they did not sell their child.

Khadijah, the prime suspect, denied allegations of child theft and trafficking, insisting that she merely facilitated connections with social welfare workers. She claimed that the children involved had poor parents who couldn’t care for them or had lost their mothers, necessitating support and care.

Child abduction has become a prevalent issue in Nigeria, with several reported cases in Gombe and other regions.

The uncovering of this alleged trafficking syndicate underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of child abduction and the need for comprehensive efforts to combat the illicit trade. The investigation continues as authorities work to dismantle the network and hold all involved parties accountable for their actions.