By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – Soldiers from the 13 Brigade Nigerian Army have arrested seven suspected human traffickers in Calabar, Cross River State capital.
Converseer learned that the suspects were arrested on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, at Glorious Amazing Grace Hospital, Ikot Ekpo, Calabar Municipality, while trying to sell a newborn baby for N3 million.
According to a statement by Major Yemi Sokoya, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, on 28 January 2026, the operation was in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
The statement disclosed that the intelligence-led operation was conducted, following detailed and credible intelligence received by troops of the Brigade on the activities of a suspected human trafficking syndicate operating within the area.
“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 said.
It added that, “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 (₦3,000,000), 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,” the statement added.
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.
