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 praised the police for their prompt response in unraveling the case, which was initially reported as a 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 (DPO), CSP Joseph Labe, to immediately deploy officers across Uvwie and parts of Warri in search of the missing infant.
However, during preliminary interactions with the baby’s mother, police operatives reportedly became suspicious due to inconsistencies in her account and her demeanor.
This led investigators to advise that her husband independently verify her claims regarding the child’s disappearance.
Chika-dibia disclosed that 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 baby 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 investigation. The mother later led 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 baby boy was safely rescued,” Chika-dibia said.
He added that the Delta State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged sale and to identify any other individuals who may have been involved.
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 crucial role in the success of the operation.
Chika-dibia assured that further updates would be provided as investigations continue, in line with official briefings from the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command.