The Abia State Police Command has arrested four suspects over alleged conspiracy, child stealing and trafficking after a four-day-old baby was reportedly taken from its mentally unstable mother.

The suspects were identified as Gladys Nathaniel, Victor Udochukwu, Chijioke Obunwa and Onyeonoro Chinwe.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, operatives of the Violent Crimes Response Unit (VCRU) and Rapid Response Unit (RRU), Obehie, arrested the suspects on September 16, 2026.

Chinaka said the suspects allegedly conspired to steal the four-day-old baby from her mother and subsequently sold the infant to another person.

She added that the suspects were apprehended following intelligence and subsequent police investigation into the alleged offence.

The police spokesperson said both the baby and the mother were rescued during the operation.

“The baby and mother were rescued. The mother has been released to her family for proper care and medical attention, while the infant has been handed over to the Ministry of Women Affairs for protective custody,” Chinaka said.

The four suspects are currently in police custody, while investigation into the case continues at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).

Chinaka said the suspects would be charged to court after the conclusion of the investigation.

The police also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and addressing cases involving child stealing and trafficking.