Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, have uncovered and dismantled a suspected baby factory in the Badagry area of Lagos State, rescuing 28 victims and arresting two suspects.
The State Commandant, Adedotun Keshinro, disclosed this while briefing journalists on Friday in Badagry, stating that the operation followed a three-week intelligence-driven surveillance in the area.
Keshinro said the illegal facility, located at Okuju, Ilado, Road 1, Zone 1, Olorunda, was raided during an overnight operation between April 15 and 16 by NSCDC operatives.
He explained that the suspects allegedly used a Facebook account to recruit pregnant women, persuading them to sell their babies to prospective buyers after delivery for between ₦500,000 and ₦1 million.
28 victims were rescued from the facility, including 17 heavily pregnant women, one adult male, and 10 children, some of whom were infants.
“One of the victims reportedly lost her pregnancy due to the poor and unhealthy conditions in the facility.
“Items recovered from the scene include a pumping machine, generator set, six standing fans, two gas cylinders, a burner, large cooking pots, five Android phones, four large mats, and assorted food items,” he added.
The NSCDC commandant condemned the act, describing it as inhumane and barbaric, and warned individuals involved in such criminal activities to desist or face the full wrath of the law.
He further stated that the suspects and victims had been handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and appropriate action.
Keshinro assured the public that all those connected to the illegal operation would be brought to justice.
