A 48-year-old man named Anthony Igbinogun and his girlfriend, Joy Umukoro, have been taken into custody on suspicion of selling their newborn baby to obtain drugs.
The Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking (ETAHT) apprehended the couple, along with their friend James Precious, who was reportedly connected to the buyer in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Abigail Ihonre, the Head of the Investigation Unit at ETAHT, revealed in a press statement in Benin City that the baby was sold for N1.7 million. While the mother confessed to the crime, the whereabouts of the infant are still unknown.
According to Ihonre, Joy gave birth in April 2023 but later claimed that they decided to sell their son because they were unable to provide for him. She further disclosed that both Anthony and Joy are struggling with drug addiction, which puts them at risk of a seven-year prison sentence.
The ongoing investigation is focused on locating the baby and identifying the buyers. The case is set to be presented in court on Monday, June 26, 2023, to ensure that all those involved face the legal consequences of their actions.
“As we continue our investigation, we are intensifying our efforts to find the baby and the buyers involved. The matter will be taken to court on Monday, June 26, 2023, to ensure that everyone responsible faces the full weight of the law for their criminal activities,” stated Abigail Ihonre.
“Our findings revealed that Joy Umukoro gave birth in April 2023 and conspired with her boyfriend to sell their baby for N1.7 million. The suspects claimed that they resorted to this heinous act because they were unable to care for the baby. However, their decision to sell the child, driven by their alleged drug addiction, is not a viable solution and could potentially ruin their lives. The penalty for human trafficking is approximately seven years of imprisonment,” she added.
