In a startling development, Chukwudinma Umunnakwe and Comfort Umunnakwe have been apprehended by the Imo State Police Command for allegedly operating a baby factory under the guise of Comfort Orphanage Home in Owerri.
The couple's arrest, as disclosed by Henry Okoye, spokesperson for the police command, follows an intelligence tip-off that uncovered their illicit activities.
The suspects reportedly confessed to running the operation for over a decade, exploiting vulnerable pregnant women by coercing them into signing agreements to surrender their newborns upon birth.
Prices for the infants varied between N400,000 to N500,000 depending on gender, underscoring the lucrative nature of their criminal enterprise.
Authorities became aware of the operation after one victim, identified as Ijeoma, revealed the harrowing conditions within the orphanage, alleging she was held against her will and subjected to threats.
Despite her refusal to sign the agreement, she was allegedly denied contact with her family.
According to The Nation, the Imo State Police Command has assured the public of a thorough investigation, with plans to arraign the suspects in court upon completion.
They have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities promptly.