The Delta State Police Command has rescued a two-month-old baby boy allegedly sold by his mother to a pastor in Agbarho community, following a swift security operation that uncovered what initially appeared to be a case of child abduction.
The incident, which occurred in Uvwie Local Government Area, was confirmed on Thursday by the Executive Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Security, Engr. Emmanuel Udoka Chika-dibia praised the police for their prompt response and professionalism in handling the sensitive case.
Chika-dibia explained that the matter was first reported at the Ekpan Police Division as the disappearance of an infant. Acting on the report, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Joseph Labe Esq, immediately deployed officers to search Uvwie and parts of Warri in an urgent effort to locate the missing child.
During initial questioning, however, security operatives became suspicious of the baby’s mother after noticing inconsistencies in her explanation and her unusual behaviour. This raised concerns about the true circumstances surrounding the child’s disappearance.
As part of efforts to clarify the situation, the woman’s husband was advised to independently verify her claims. The situation later took a dramatic turn when the husband accompanied his wife to take an oath to prove her innocence. During the process, she reportedly confessed to selling the baby boy to a pastor in Agbarho.
Following the confession, the couple was taken into police custody. CSP Labe ensured the safety of the woman while further investigations were initiated. The mother later led police officers to a church in Agbarho, where the baby was successfully recovered.
“As a result of the operation, the pastor and his wife were arrested, while the two-month-old baby boy was rescued alive,” Chika-dibia said.
He added that the Delta State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation to uncover all circumstances surrounding the alleged sale of the child and to identify any other individuals connected to the incident.
The governor’s aide also commended the President General of the Agbarho community for his timely intervention and cooperation, noting that community support played a vital role in the success of the rescue operation.
Chika-dibia assured the public that more details would be released as investigations continue, in line with official updates from the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Police Command.
