In a shocking incident that has left many in utter dismay, Iraqi police arrested a couple for trying to sell their four-month-old baby. The couple was said to have been caught red-handed by the police in a sting operation, and they subsequently admitted to having intended to sell their infant.
The operation was in a residential area of Baghdad, where police officers working undercover pretended to be would-be buyers. The operation resulted in the immediate arrest of the parents, who were arrested on charges of human trafficking and child endangerment. The baby was taken into state custody and is being protected by child welfare agencies at the moment.
As reported by local media, desperation for money could have been involved, with the couple naming extreme poverty and absence of assistance as grounds. Nonetheless, authorities denounced the act as criminal and inhumane, emphasizing that under no condition can one sell a child.
They are currently widening the investigation to see whether the couple belonged to a wider trafficking ring. The case has provoked widespread public outcry, with human rights organizations demanding more robust social safety nets and more severe punishment for trafficking crimes.
