Inp.polri.go.id - Yogyakarta. Kulon Progo Sub-regional Police in Yogyakarta have arrested four suspects linked to a baby trafficking syndicate operating on Facebook under the guise of adoption. 

The suspects, hailing from Central Java, were identified as AH (41), A (39), NNR (20), and MM (52), who played various roles in the operation, according to antaranews.com.

"The suspects targeted young mothers unwilling to raise babies from unwanted pregnancies," said Kulon Progo Police Chief Superintendent Wilson Bugner F. Pasaribu during a press conference on Monday (25/11/2024).

The case was uncovered after investigators identified a Facebook account actively seeking pregnant women or people looking to adopt babies. Investigators who posed as prospective adopters were offered a baby for Rp 25 million.

The transaction culminated last Wednesday when the syndicate delivered a baby, only to be caught red-handed. 

"MM was the mastermind, NNR acted as a babysitter, A sought buyers, and AH handled deliveries," Chief Wilson explained, as quoted by antaranews.com.

The syndicate, active for over a year, charged Rp 20 to 40 million per baby, with higher prices for mixed-ethnicity girls. Police are investigating further cases and have secured a rescued baby under state care.

The suspects face up to 15 years in prison under the Child Protection Law.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)