The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), has arrested seven suspected human traffickers during an intelligence-led operation in Calabar, Cross River State.
The suspects were apprehended by troops of the Headquarters 13 Brigade, Nigerian Army, on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, following credible intelligence on the activities of a human trafficking syndicate operating within Calabar Municipality Local Government Area.
Acting swiftly on the information, troops carried out a coordinated raid on Glorious Amazing Grace Hospital, located in the Ikot Ekpo area of Calabar Municipality. During the operation, the suspects were caught while allegedly negotiating the sale of a day-old baby boy for the sum of ₦3 million, an act authorities described as a grave violation of the law and a serious abuse of fundamental human rights.
Those arrested include Mrs Glory Emmanuel (54), Mr Anthony Bassey (35), Miss Uduak John (27), Mrs Deborah Edet (35), Mrs Ruth Asoquo (35), and Mrs Frada Donald (35), all from Cross River State, as well as Miss Blessing Okon (23) from Akwa Ibom State.
Following their arrest, the suspects, along with relevant exhibits recovered during the operation, were handed over to officials of NAPTIP for further investigation and prosecution in line with extant laws. The rescued infant has since been placed under the care of appropriate authorities.
In a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade, Major Yemi Sokoya, the Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with civil authorities and relevant agencies to combat human trafficking, child abuse, and other criminal activities within its area of responsibility.
The Army also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely, credible, and actionable information to enhance the safety and security of lives and property.
