In a shocking incident in Abia State, a father alongside three accomplices has been arrested for allegedly attempting to sell his 16-month-old daughter. The arrests took place on September 7, 2026, following an operation by the State Criminal Investigation Department's Gender Unit.

The Abia State Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, revealed that the suspects were apprehended at a hotel located in Obi, within the Obingwa Local Government Area. The police acted on intelligence regarding the alleged conspiracy and child trafficking, leading to the swift intervention that resulted in the rescue of the child.

Afolabi confirmed that preliminary investigations indicated that the child was indeed the biological daughter of one of the suspects. Further inquiries suggested that the motive behind this heinous act was financial gain, as the suspects reportedly aimed to profit from the trafficking of the young girl.

Following the rescue, the child has been placed under the care of the Ministry of Women Affairs, ensuring her safety and well-being. Meanwhile, the four suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue into the full extent of their actions and any potential networks involved in child trafficking in the region.

This incident has raised concerns about child safety and trafficking in Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for stricter measures and awareness campaigns to protect vulnerable children from exploitation. The police have reiterated their commitment to tackling such crimes and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.