A tricycle driver in Warri, Delta State, played a crucial role in thwarting a child trafficking operation after overhearing suspicious conversations between passengers. The drama unfolded when four women boarded his tricycle, and two alighted at Effurun Roundabout. Before departing, one of the women handed over a newborn baby to the remaining two, with the chilling remark, “the balance has been paid.” Alarmed, the driver deviated from the original destination and drove the women, along with the infant, straight to the Ekpan Police Station.
Upon interrogation, the women—identified as Tessi Ikechukwu and Lauretta Akomen—confessed that they had purchased the baby for N2 million from a notorious baby factory in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. This factory, as revealed, harbored teenage girls who were impregnated by men, and the resulting babies were sold to childless individuals. Lauretta Akomen disclosed that she had been consuming medication to simulate a pregnancy and had been planning to deliver the child to a buyer in Delta State.
Delta State Police Spokesman, Superintendent Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrests and ongoing investigation. He also mentioned a manhunt for Gloria, an intermediary in the illicit trade, and other accomplices involved in the trafficking ring.
This incident highlights the bravery of the tricycle driver and the importance of vigilance in curbing illegal child trafficking in Nigeria.
Peoplesmind