A disturbing case of alleged child trafficking has emerged from Ahmedabad, where a 20-day-old baby girl was reportedly sold for ₹1.5 lakh by her maternal aunt. Swift police intervention led to the rescue of the infant and the arrest of multiple individuals allegedly involved in the illegal transaction.

According to investigators, the incident came to light after authorities received information about the suspicious sale of a newborn. Acting on the tip-off, police launched an inquiry that uncovered a network involving close family members and intermediaries who allegedly facilitated the transfer of the infant in exchange for money.

Baby Allegedly Sold by Maternal Aunt

Police said the accused woman allegedly sold her brother’s 20-day-old daughter to another family for ₹1.5 lakh without following any legal adoption procedures. The transaction reportedly took place in the Vatva area of Ahmedabad.

Investigators believe the infant’s parents were in a financially vulnerable position, and the accused allegedly exploited the family’s circumstances to arrange the illegal deal. Authorities are continuing to verify the exact role played by each individual involved.

Officials emphasized that no private individual has the legal authority to transfer custody of a child through monetary transactions, and any adoption must be carried out strictly under the legal framework prescribed by Indian law.

Police Investigation Leads to Rescue

Following the complaint and preliminary investigation, police traced the whereabouts of the newborn and safely rescued the child from the individuals who had allegedly taken custody after paying money.

The infant has since been placed under the protection of the concerned authorities to ensure her safety and well-being while further legal procedures are carried out.

Police officials stated that the child’s medical condition is stable and that appropriate child welfare agencies have been informed to oversee her care. 

Multiple Arrests Made

As the investigation progressed, police arrested the maternal aunt along with other individuals suspected of participating in the illegal transaction.

Authorities are examining whether brokers or middlemen were involved in facilitating the deal and are also investigating whether the accused have links to any larger child trafficking network.

The arrested individuals are being questioned, and further arrests may follow if additional evidence emerges during the investigation.

Legal Action Initiated

Police have registered a case under relevant provisions relating to child trafficking, illegal sale of a minor, criminal conspiracy, and other applicable laws. Investigators are also coordinating with child protection authorities to ensure that all legal safeguards for the rescued infant are followed.

Officials reiterated that the sale or purchase of children is a serious criminal offence and that legal adoption in India can only be conducted through authorized procedures under the supervision of competent authorities.

Authorities Appeal Against Illegal Adoptions

Law enforcement agencies have urged the public not to engage in informal or cash-based child adoption arrangements, warning that such practices violate the law and can expose children to exploitation, trafficking, and abuse.

Officials advised families facing financial hardship or personal difficulties to seek assistance through government welfare schemes or legally recognized child welfare institutions instead of resorting to illegal transfers of custody.

The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing to collect evidence, examine financial transactions, and question those connected to the case. Authorities have indicated that further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.