By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Special Anti-Touting Squad Agency (SASA) in Anambra State has arrested a self-acclaimed prophetess, Precious Uchenna, and some of her alleged accomplices over the suspected trafficking of a newborn baby in Awada, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state.

The arrestt came on the heels of an investigation by security operatives on the alleged sale of the newborn for ?2.9 million which led to the tracing of the Child’s location.

According to SASA, the biological mother of the child, identified simply as Miss Chioma, told investigators that shortly after giving birth, she entrusted her newborn to Prophetess Uchenna under circumstances she believed were safe.

But, subsequently, the mother of the child allegedly became unable to gain access to her child and was later informed that the baby had been handed over to another woman who reportedly paid ?2.9 million for the infant.

She alleged that following the transaction, the prophetess gave her ?300,000 and rented an apartment for her, while she remained unaware of the whereabouts of her child.

According to SASA, during interrogation, the prophetess allegedly admitted to participating in the illegal sale of the baby alongside other suspects

SASA said: “The suspects were questioned by the agency’s Women and Child Trafficking Investigation Unit, headed by Ambassador Karen James.

“The matter had been transferred to the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs for further investigation and appropriate legal action and the suspects were handed over to relevant investigative authorities for continuation of the case.”

It further said that rescued newborn is safe and receiving necessary care as investigations continue.

Speaking on the development, SASA Managing Director, Hon. Monday Nwokoye, expressed concern over criminal activities allegedly carried out under the guise of religious organisations.

He urged residents to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that timely information could help prevent crimes and save lives.

While reaffirming the commitment of the Anambra State Government under Governor Chukwuma Soludo to tackling child trafficking, kidnapping, cultism, touting and other criminal activities across the state, the SASA boss called on parents and guardians to remain vigilant and carefully scrutinise individuals and organisations entrusted with the care of their children.

He cited child trafficking as a serious criminal offence that violates children’s rights and causes lasting harm to families, warning that religious organisations or any other institutions must not be used as a cover for criminal activities.