The Delta State Police Command has rescued a two-month-old baby boy who was allegedly sold by his mother to a pastor in Agbarho, Delta State, following swift intervention by security operatives.
The rescue was confirmed on Thursday by the Executive Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Security, Engr. Emmanuel Udoka Chika-dibia, who commended the prompt response of the police in foiling what was initially reported as a case of child abduction.
According to Chika-dibia, the incident was first reported at the Ekpan Police Division as an alleged abduction, prompting the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Joseph Labe Esq, to immediately deploy officers to comb Uvwie and parts of Warri in search of the missing infant.
However, during preliminary interactions with the baby’s mother, security operatives reportedly became suspicious due to her demeanor and inconsistencies in her account.
This led to suggestions that her husband should independently verify her claims about the disappearance of the child.
Chika-dibia said the situation took a dramatic turn when the husband escorted his wife to take an oath to prove her innocence, during which she allegedly confessed to selling the two-month-old baby boy to a pastor in Agbarho.
Following the confession, the couple was taken to the police station, where CSP Labe ensured the woman’s safety and initiated further investigative actions. The mother subsequently led police operatives to a church in Agbarho, where the baby was recovered.
“As a result of the operation, the pastor and his wife were arrested, while the baby boy was successfully rescued,” Chika-dibia disclosed.
He added that the Delta State Police Command has commenced a full-scale investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the alleged sale of the child and to identify any other individuals who may have been involved.
The governor’s aide also expressed appreciation to the President General of the Agbarho community for his timely intervention and cooperation, noting that community support played a crucial role in the successful rescue operation.
Chika-dibia assured that further details would be made public as investigations progress, in line with updates from the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command.
