The Lagos State Police Command has arrested two women for allegedly selling newborn twins.
The suspects, identified as Ujunwa Una and Chinelo Igbechionwu, were apprehended by patrol officers from the Ojodu Division.
The arrest took place at the Berger bus stop, a key entry point into Lagos State, on September 9, 2024.
The police were alerted by a Good Samaritan who suspected foul play.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers found the suspects in possession of two baby girls, approximately six days old.
Investigations revealed that the women had traveled from Abia State with the infants.
They were reportedly en route to deliver the babies to a nurse in Lagos, as arranged by the babies’ mother.
The mother of the twins had promised to connect the suspects with the nurse only after their arrival in Lagos.
During questioning, the suspects confessed to the crime.
They disclosed that they were paid ₦150,000 for transporting the babies to Lagos.
According to the suspects, the mother sold the twins because she felt unable to provide proper care for them.
This case highlights the ongoing issue of child trafficking and illegal child sales in Nigeria.
The Lagos State Police Command has taken the matter seriously and transferred the case to the Gender Unit for further investigation.
The two newborns have since been placed in the custody of a motherless babies’ home, where they will receive proper care and medical evaluation.
SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police Public Relations Officer for Lagos State, provided details on the case.
He stated, “This is a very serious matter. We are committed to investigating the entire network involved in this crime.”
The police are currently working to identify and apprehend other conspirators who may be linked to this case.
Child trafficking remains a pressing issue in Nigeria, with many vulnerable families facing economic hardship.
The plight of children in such situations calls for immediate attention and action from the authorities and society.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has emphasised the need for community involvement in combating child trafficking.
He encouraged residents to report suspicious activities to the police, ensuring the safety of children in the community.
As investigations continue, the police are urging anyone with information related to the case or similar incidents to come forward.
The swift action of the Good Samaritan in this case may have saved the lives of the newborn twins, underscoring the importance of vigilance in communities.
SP Hundeyin added, “We commend the citizen who reported this case. It is a reminder that we all have a role to play in protecting our children.”
The case has raised awareness about the dangers of child trafficking and the need for stronger protective measures for vulnerable families.
Child welfare organizations have also expressed their concerns about the growing number of cases involving the sale of children.
Advocates stress the importance of providing support for mothers in distress, ensuring they have access to resources for childcare.
As the Lagos State Police Command continues its investigations, they are also collaborating with local NGOs to provide assistance to affected families.
The story of these newborn twins serves as a wake-up call for the nation.
It highlights the urgent need for comprehensive policies to protect children and support struggling families across Nigeria.
The arrests of Ujunwa Una and Chinelo Igbechionwu mark a crucial step in addressing child trafficking.
However, the police recognize that there is still much work to be done to dismantle the networks that facilitate such crimes.
As the community rallies to support the rescued twins, authorities are determined to bring all involved in this case to justice.
The public response to this incident will likely shape future efforts to combat child trafficking in Lagos and beyond.
