Abia state police command has announced the arrest of a 28-year-old woman, Adaeze Lawrence, for allegedly stealing her friend’s one month and two days old baby boy.
The suspect carried out the crime after gaining the trust of the baby’s mother, Onyinyechi Owujie. Lawrence who is reportedly a hair stylist, was Owujie’s elder sister’s schoolmate and gained access to the victim through her.
She reportedly absconded with the baby while celebration of his birth was ongoing. Lawrence was arrested at her hideout following credible intelligence.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Chioma Chinaka said;
“On August 14, 2023, around 4pm, the Abia State Police Special Weapons and Tactics Team, Aba, received credible information and effectively apprehended one Adaeze Lawrence of Amaogbonna Road, off Osisikakwu Street in Aba.
“She was found in possession of a baby boy who is one month and two days old.
“Investigation revealed that the suspect and the baby’s mother’s elder sister were schoolmates. The suspect took advantage of this relationship to gain the baby’s mother’s trust.
“The suspect, under the pretence of visiting her friend, requested to celebrate the new baby’s birth. On their celebration outing, she absconded with the baby.
“Upon the suspect’s arrest, Adaeze Lawrence denied the crime, but medical examinations from the police clinic disproved her claims, leading to her confession. The child’s biological mother identified the baby, confirming the abduction on August 6, 2023.”
She will be charged to court after the investigation has been concluded.