Seven suspects arrested as troops uncover human trafficking syndicate in Calabar

Thursday, January 29, 2026 - The Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), arrested seven suspected human traffickers during an intelligence led operation in Calabar Municipality Local Government Area of Cross River State. 

The operation was conducted on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, following detailed and credible intelligence received by troops of the Brigade on the activities of a suspected human trafficking syndicate operating within the area.

Assistant Director, Army Public Relations
Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Major Yemi Sokoya, who disclosed this in a statement said suspects were arrested while negotiating to sell a day-old baby boy for the sum of N3m. 

“Acting swiftly on the intelligence, troops carried out a coordinated raid on Glorious Amazing Grace Hospital, located in the Ikot Ekpo general area of Calabar Municipality,” the statement read. 

"During the raid, the suspects were apprehended while negotiations were ongoing to sell a day-old baby boy for the sum of Three Million Naira (N3,000,000), an act which constitutes a grave violation of the law and a serious breach of fundamental human rights.

"The suspects arrested include Mrs Glory Emmanuel (54 years), Mr Anthony Bassey (35 years), Miss Uduak John (27 years), Mrs Deborah Edet (35 years), Mrs Ruth Asoquo (35 years), Mrs Frada Donald (35 years), all from Cross River State, and Miss Blessing Okon (23 years) from Akwa Ibom State.

"Following their arrest, the suspects, along with relevant exhibits, were handed over to officials of NAPTIP for further investigation and necessary legal action, in line with extant laws and established procedures. The rescued infant has been placed under the care of  appropriate authorities.

"The Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army reiterates its unwavering commitment to working in synergy with civil authorities and relevant agencies to combat human trafficking, child abuse, and other criminal activities within its area of responsibility. 

“Members of the public are encouraged to continue to support security agencies by providing timely, credible, and actionable information to enhance the safety and security of lives and property.