Inp.polri.go.id - Ngawi. Ngawi Sub-regional Police have uncovered a baby trafficking syndicate operating across East Java and Jakarta, arresting four suspects and identifying 10 infant victims so far.

"All four suspects are now in custody at Ngawi Police Headquarters for further legal proceedings. We’ve confirmed 10 babies were trafficked in East Java and Jakarta," said Ngawi Police Chief Superintendent Charles Pandapotan Tampubolon during a press conference on Saturday (31/5/2025), as quoted by antara news.co.

The suspects include ZM (34) and R (32) from Pasuruan, SA (35) from Ponorogo—allegedly the ringleader—and SEB (22) from Ngawi. The case was uncovered after local officials grew suspicious when suspects ZM and R attempted to adopt a baby using pre-prepared documents.

According to police, the group targeted low-income families, offering Rp 6 million for childbirth expenses, then sold the babies to buyers in Jakarta for Rp1 5 million. 

The police have seized a car, cash, bank books, and baby clothes as evidence.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)