Police Uncover Baby Factory in Lagos State, Rescue 19 Pregnant Women and Four Children

 In a significant crackdown on human trafficking, the Lagos State Police Command uncovered a baby factory operating in the Ikotun area of Lagos. 

Acting on credible intelligence, detectives from the Isheri-Osun Police Station, led by Divisional Police Officer CSP Chike Ibe, conducted coordinated raids on multiple locations, including No. 14 Adisa Street, Ayanwale; No. 32 Owosho Street, Governor Road; No. 29 Olugbeyohun Street, Olakunle Bus Stop, Abaranje; and No. 4/6 Anomo Street, Abaranje. 

The operations resulted in the rescue of 19 pregnant women, aged between 15 and 28, and four children. The victims were reportedly brought to Lagos from various states, including Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Abia, and Imo, under false pretenses of employment opportunities. Upon arrival, they were held captive and impregnated, with the intention of selling their newborns. ​

Two suspects, identified as 40-year-old Happiness Ukwuoma from Imo State and 54-year-old Sherifat Ipeya from Lagos State, were apprehended during the raids. Both women were operating as unlicensed nurses without formal medical training. The principal suspect, known as Madam Oluchi from Mbano, Imo State, remains at large, and a manhunt has been initiated to apprehend her. 

Investigations revealed that male infants were sold for approximately ₦500,000, while female infants were sold for around ₦300,000. The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Zubairu Muazu, has ordered the State Criminal Investigation Department to take over the case for further investigation and prosecution. ​

This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation. The rescued women and children are currently receiving care and support as investigations continue.