The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has apprehended Gabriel Ekpiri, a man accused of selling his nine-year-old son for the sum of N400,000. The suspect, an unemployed resident of Ekit Itam Akpan Obong in Itu Local Government Area, has confessed to the crime, attributing it to the influence of the devil and the economic hardship he faced.
In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Odiko Macdon, it was revealed that a patrol squad swiftly intervened and arrested Gabriel Ekpiri when they discovered the heinous act during a routine patrol. The Commissioner of Police, CP Olatoye Durosinmi, has condemned the action, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable.
The incident has left the community in shock and residents appalled by the actions of a parent towards their own child. The police have initiated a thorough investigation into the matter to uncover the full extent of the incident and ensure that all individuals involved face the full consequences of the law.
Meanwhile, the rescued child has been placed under the care of child welfare authorities as they await further legal proceedings. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the well-being and rights of children, and highlights the need for ongoing efforts to address issues of economic hardship and provide support to vulnerable individuals and families.
