The Abia State Police Command has arrested four people over the alleged theft and sale of a four-day-old baby in the state.

The suspects, identified as Gladys Nathaniel, 48; Victor Udochukwu, 47; Chijioke Obunwa, 59; and Onyeonoro Chinwe, 43, were reportedly arrested following an investigation into the alleged incident.

The command’s spokesperson, Maureen Chinaka, said the suspects were arrested on September 16, 2026, by operatives of the Violent Crimes Response Unit and Rapid Response Unit in Obehie.

According to the police, the suspects allegedly conspired to take the newborn from its mother, who was described as mentally unstable, before selling the baby to another person.

The police said the operation was carried out based on credible and actionable intelligence received by its operatives.

Following the investigation, the four suspects were taken into custody while the newborn and the mother were rescued.

The mother has reportedly been reunited with her family, who were advised to ensure she receives appropriate care and medical attention.

The baby, meanwhile, has been placed in the protective custody of the Abia State Ministry of Women Affairs.

The suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue at the State Criminal Investigation Department.

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

The Commissioner of Police in Abia State, Wilfred Afolabi, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and ensuring that individuals found responsible for criminal activities face the law.