NAPTIP seals illegal maternity facility in Port Harcourt over alleged baby trafficking involving three infants and N13.5 million transaction. The operation, conducted on Thursday by National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) operatives alongside the Rivers State Ministry of Health, targeted a clandestine clinic located in Elelenwo, Port Harcourt. The facility, operating from a residential apartment, was allegedly used to procure, sell, and illegally transfer children as part of a suspected child trafficking syndicate. Authorities sealed the premises immediately after the raid to preserve evidence and ensure the safety of any children present.
During the investigation, NAPTIP revealed that a Liberian woman residing in Belgium had entered Nigeria without any medical proof of pregnancy. Within approximately one month, she reportedly took custody of three babies, raising immediate suspicion of illegal adoption or trafficking. Preliminary findings suggest that about N13.5 million was paid in connection with the transfer of these children, indicating a well-organized financial network behind the scheme. Investigators are now tracing the money trail and examining possible involvement of medical staff and other individuals linked to the operation.
NAPTIP officers from both Abuja and Rivers State carried out the coordinated raid, which led to the arrest of the facility’s owner, an alleged facilitator in the transaction, and another staff member. The agency has launched forensic and documentary investigations to determine the biological and legal parentage of the children, as well as their current whereabouts and welfare. The children are currently under NAPTIP’s care while authorities work to uncover the full scope of the trafficking network.
Director-General Binta Adamu Bello expressed deep concern over foreign nationals exploiting Nigeria’s healthcare system to acquire children through illegal means. She emphasized that NAPTIP is expanding its probe to identify and apprehend all persons involved in the case. “Anyone found culpable will face due process under the law,” Bello stated, adding that the safety and well-being of the affected children remain the agency’s top priority.
This incident highlights the growing challenge of child trafficking in Nigeria, particularly involving international actors seeking to exploit loopholes in medical and immigration systems. As investigations continue, authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activities related to unregistered clinics or unusual child adoptions. The case also underscores the need for stronger inter-agency collaboration and public awareness to combat human trafficking effectively. NAPTIP’s swift action sends a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated, and justice will be pursued relentlessly.
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