Shock in Cross River as nurses, female soldier allegedly steal and sell newborn after lying to mother about baby’s death

In a shocking case that has left residents of Cross River State in disbelief, two nurses and a female soldier have been arrested for allegedly stealing and selling a newborn baby after deceiving the mother into believing her child had died shortly after birth.

According to reports, the incident occurred in Calabar, the state capital, where the unsuspecting mother had delivered her baby in a private medical facility. Moments after the birth, the nurses reportedly informed her that the child had died due to complications. However, instead of arranging for the supposed burial, they allegedly conspired with the female soldier to secretly sell the baby to a third party.

Sources revealed that the crime was uncovered following a tip-off to security operatives, prompting a swift investigation that led to the arrest of the suspects. It was further gathered that the female soldier acted as the intermediary in the illicit transaction, linking the nurses to potential buyers.

The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed the arrests, stating that the suspects are currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations. Police spokesperson, SP Irene Ugbo, noted that the baby has been rescued and is in safe custody, while efforts are underway to locate and interrogate all those connected to the crime.

Public outrage has been swift, with many calling for maximum punishment for those involved. Human rights activists in the state have condemned the act as a gross violation of medical ethics, human dignity, and the trust between patients and healthcare professionals.

Cases of baby theft and trafficking remain a worrying trend in parts of Nigeria, with security agencies intensifying efforts to clamp down on such criminal networks. The suspects are expected to be charged in court once investigations are concluded.