The Lagos State Police Command has uncovered a baby factory operating in the Ijegun area of the state and rescued 10 victims, including three children. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the illegal operation.
The police made the discovery on Saturday, March 30, after receiving a tip-off from a concerned citizen. Acting swiftly on the information, officers raided the location and arrested the suspected mastermind, 35-year-old Mariam Vincent. Two others, Orie Ruth (23) and Ujunwa Ifeanyi (18), were also arrested at the scene.
Spokesperson of the Lagos State Police Command, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the incident while addressing reporters on Monday.
“Our officers moved in quickly after receiving the information, and thankfully, we were able to rescue the victims and arrest the suspects behind this wicked act,” Hundeyin said.
He disclosed that seven adult women and three children were found at the location. The rescued adults include Precious (24), Magdalene (25), Adaobi (23), Princess (22), Ifeanyi (25), and Amaka (26). The children rescued were Destiny (7), Miracle (5), and Success (2).
“These women were kidnapped from different locations in Lagos and held against their will. The suspects confessed to kidnapping them for the purpose of operating a baby factory,” Hundeyin revealed.
The rescued victims are now receiving proper medical attention, food, and psychological support, according to the police.
An investigation is ongoing, and the suspects are expected to face charges in court soon.
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Police Continue Crackdown on Crime
While giving a general update on police operations over the past two weeks, Hundeyin said a total of 39 suspects were arrested for various offences across the state. These crimes include murder, kidnapping, armed robbery, rape, child stealing, illegal possession of firearms, vandalism, and drug-related offences.
“The Lagos State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property. We are making steady progress in tackling crime in the state,” Hundeyin said.
Two Kidnapped Victims Rescued in Ikorodu
In a separate incident, police rescued two victims who were kidnapped in the Igbe Alagemo area of Ijede, Ikorodu. The attack happened at night on March 26, when armed kidnappers stormed the peaceful community and abducted two residents in a violent operation.
Hundeyin narrated the terrifying event.
“The kidnappers first attacked the home of a 40-year-old man named Dare. They shot and killed his guard dog and forcefully took him away. Then they broke into a neighbouring house and kidnapped 25-year-old Rodiat,” he said.
A distress call was made to the police around 9 p.m. on the night of the incident. In response, the police launched a joint operation with local security teams.
“Our men worked round the clock for three days, and on March 29 at about 11:56 p.m., they successfully rescued the victims,” Hundeyin stated.
He added that both victims were reunited with their families and are in stable condition. Security has been tightened in the area, and investigations are ongoing to track down the kidnappers.
“We are continuing surveillance in the area and are determined to arrest those behind the kidnapping. Residents can be assured that we will not rest until we make Lagos safer,” Hundeyin promised.
Call for Vigilance
The police command is urging residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity in their communities. Hundeyin praised the role of the public in providing useful information and encouraged continued cooperation.
“Community support is key to our success. If you see something suspicious, speak up. Together, we can rid Lagos of criminal elements,” he said.