The Rivers State Police Command has uncovered a major child trafficking syndicate operating within the state, leading to the arrest of several suspects allegedly involved in the illicit trade of newborn babies.
The syndicate, reportedly led by 54-year-old Blessing Jack, a resident of Timber Road, Igwuruta, Port Harcourt, specialized in exploiting vulnerable young mothers, stealing their babies, and selling them for large sums of money.
According to the Command, operatives of the C4i Intelligence Unit arrested the prime suspect, Blessing Jack, on October 9, 2025, around 3:00 p.m., following an intelligence-led operation.
During the investigation, a recorded conversation between Blessing Jack and one Marley Oburu revealed the group’s modus operandi. In the exchange, Blessing discussed a recent case where an associate deceitfully told a mother that her baby had died, while in reality, the infant had been sold for ₦2 million. The syndicate allegedly used fake medical scans and deceptive tactics to manipulate pregnant women and seize their babies.
Other arrested suspects include 30-year-old Chinonso Raymond, 32-year-old Chinyere Okorie, and 50-year-old Nkechi Nwankwo, all residents of Port Harcourt.
Preliminary investigations further revealed that Blessing Jack had previously served a three-year prison term in Calabar for similar child trafficking offences, confirming her long-term involvement in the crime.
All suspects have reportedly confessed to their participation, detailing their individual roles within the network. They are currently in police custody as the Command intensifies efforts to arrest other members of the syndicate and fully dismantle the operation.
The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju commended the operatives for their diligence and professionalism in cracking the case. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring justice for victims of human trafficking.
He also urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information that could assist in ongoing investigations and the prosecution of offenders.
“Together, we can build a safer and more secure society for all,” the Commissioner said.