The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has uncovered a suspected baby factory in Badagry area of Lagos State, rescuing 28 persons during a late night operation.
According to officials, those rescued included 18 adults and 10 children, while 17 of the adults were pregnant women. Authorities also recorded one miscarriage case during the intervention.
Two suspects were arrested in connection with the alleged operation.
Lagos State NSCDC Commandant, Adedotun Keshinro, said the raid followed intelligence gathered over a three week period.
He explained that operatives stormed the facility around midnight on Wednesday after monitoring activities at the location.
The building, situated in Okuju Ilado, Badagry, was described as a large residential property with several apartments.
According to the commandant, the operators allegedly lured pregnant women with promises of financial assistance and made them sign agreements.
He added that a disguised Facebook account was allegedly used to contact victims before directing them to private conversations.
Keshinro said once the women arrived, their movement was allegedly restricted and they were subjected to conditions within the premises.
He confirmed that both the rescued victims and arrested suspects would be handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons for further investigation.
One of the suspects reportedly said the operation had earlier been based in Ikorodu before relocating to Badagry earlier this year.
Another suspect claimed the women came voluntarily and received transport support and care after agreements were signed.
A woman identified as one of the rescued victims said she joined after the man responsible for her pregnancy refused to take responsibility.
Residents of the community also said they had grown suspicious because occupants rarely came outside and activities within the compound appeared unusual.
Authorities are expected to continue investigations into the case.
