On April 9, CNM was caught by undercover police officers posing as potential buyers of a newborn. Prior to her arrest, CNM was allegedly involved in a conspiracy with unknown individuals to sell the child.
After her 16-year-old daughter gave birth, the accused traveled to her rural home in Kakamega County on April 7. She then returned to Nairobi the following day with the newborn, promising to take care of him.
The accused had promised to visit the child after her daughter, who is the mother of the baby, returned to school. However, she allegedly made plans to sell the newborn, which were reported to the police by a concerned citizen.
Posing as potential buyers, police officers from Kasarani Police Station began negotiations with the accused, offering Sh300,000 while she demanded Sh400,000. They arranged a meeting at a restaurant in Nairobi, where the accused was eventually arrested, and the baby was rescued and taken to a children's home.
The accused's daughter was also arrested on April 9 and gave a statement to the police during the investigation. She has been placed under witness protection and listed as a witness in the case against her mother.
The accused has been in custody since her arrest, and the investigating officer obtained a 14-day remand order from the Makadara Magistrate's Court to complete investigations. She denied the charges in front of Principal Magistrate Lewis Gatheru of the Makadara Law Courts.
Why Do People Traffic Children
There are various reasons why some individuals might consider selling their children despite the fact that trafficking is illegal and morally wrong.
These reasons may include financial hardship, lack of education and awareness about child rights and protection, cultural beliefs, social and economic marginalization, and desperation. In some cases, individuals may be coerced or deceived into trafficking their children by criminal syndicates.
It's important to note that the sale of children is a grave violation of human rights and is considered a serious crime in most jurisdictions. Anyone found guilty of trafficking in persons can face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment and fines.
