Inp.polri.go.id - Denpasar.  Bali Regional Police is investigating an alleged baby trafficking syndicate involving Made Aryadana, the Head of Yayasan Anak Bali Luih in Tabanan. 

Bali Police Head of Public Relations,  Senior Superintendent Jansen Avitus Panjaitan said on Friday (20/9/2024) that the foundation houses pregnant women, persuading them to give up their newborns for adoption.

The investigation began after a baby trafficking syndicate was uncovered by Depok Sub-regional Police in West Java on 2 September 2024. The case was linked to Aryadana, prompting Bali's Directorate of Criminal Investigation to start an investigation..

When police visited the foundation, they found seven pregnant women from various regions and four women who had recently given birth. Investigations revealed that Aryadana promised the women free transportation, accommodation, and prenatal care if they agreed to put their babies up for adoption.

It was reported that babies were handed over to adopters shortly after birth. Aryadana allegedly paid the mothers around Rp 45 million, disguised as an adoption fee.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)