Doctor arrested over alleged baby sale in Lagos as police investigate claims involving parents, birth attendant, and a N2.5m transaction
A medical doctor, traditional birth attendant, and the parents of a newborn baby have been arrested by the police over an alleged sale of the child for N2.5 million in Lagos.
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The suspects were arrested after investigations revealed an alleged arrangement involving the transfer of the newborn to an unidentified buyer shortly after delivery.
The 28-year-old mother and her boyfriend were said to have sought assistance from individuals who could facilitate the sale of the baby after deciding not to keep the child.
The pregnant woman was initially taken to a traditional birth attendant for delivery but was later transferred to a private hospital in Ikorodu after complications during labour.
A 31-year-old medical doctor reportedly performed a Caesarean section that resulted in the safe delivery of the baby and the survival of the mother.
Police investigations revealed that arrangements for the alleged transaction were concluded within the hospital premises, after which the baby was handed over to a suspected buyer.
The buyer allegedly paid N2.5 million for the child, but the arrangement reportedly collapsed after the mother received only N700,000 and raised concerns over the unpaid balance.
The matter was later reported to the police after non-governmental organisations became involved.
The Lagos State Police Command transferred the case from Area E Command, Festac, to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
The Anti-Human Trafficking/Gender Unit of the SCID is handling the investigation into allegations of conspiracy, child stealing, and trafficking.
A police source said efforts to trace the alleged buyer had been unsuccessful after the contact details and address provided were found to be false.
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The suspects remain in custody and are expected to face prosecution after the completion of investigations, while police continue efforts to locate the buyer and recover the baby.
