From Michael Egbejule, Benin City

Wife of Edo State Governor, Betsy Obaseki, has called for a thorough investigation into the unwholesome activities of a cartel in the state which specialises in running a baby factory.

Obaseki briefed journalists at the weekend following a raid by security agencies on a suspected location being used as a baby factory in the Ikpoba Hill axis of Benin City.

The victims are five pregnant teenagers, who were allegedly trafficked from the South-East and South-South States and brought to Benin City to sell off their babies after delivery.

It was learnt that the prime suspect, Rachael Osagiede, aided by one Mama Harriet, who is on the run, allegedly brought in the pregnant girls from different states for delivery and sale.

Worried by the development, Betsy Obaseki, who is also the Head of the Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, led members of the Committee to brief journalists on the criminal act.

She said the five pregnant girls were found in the custody of the prime suspect during the raid while one of the girls who delivered on Tuesday through a Caesarian Section allegedly died in the custody of the prime suspect.

Obaseki called for a thorough investigation, arrest and prosecution of those behind the running of the alleged baby factory to ensure justice.

The prime suspect, Rachael Osagiede, who was arrested with different child delivery items, drugs and medical equipment claimed to be an auxiliary nurse practicing in Ilesha, Osun State.

A 17- year-old SS1 student, Udu Blessing, was also brought to the facility from Owerri, Imo State by her elder sister after being raped and impregnated while another victim, a 26-year-old lady from Akwa Ibom State, Gift Harrison, came from Port Harcourt to be taken care of by the prime suspect till delivery.

The matter is expected to be charged to court after the investigation.