Lagos police arrest couple trying to sell their two year old in bid to fund japa travel abroad

MEN of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a couple for attempting to sell their two year old don in a desperate bid to raise money to fund a trip to Canada as the notorious japa syndrome continues unabated.

Known as the Japa Syndrome, there is a growing trend among young Nigerians to travel abroad in response to falling living standards in the country. Across Europe in particular, there has been a growing demand for healthcare and social care workers following the Coronavirus pandemic and Nigerians have been keep to latch on to these offers.

Earlier this week, the couple, aged 22 and 28, were arrested while attempting to sell the boy on Tuesday. Police spokesman Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the incident to newsmen, pointing out that investigations into the case remain ongoing.

Mr Hundeyin said: “Our Isolo divisional police officer, received information that a couple went to Isolo General Hospital on Tuesday, at about 2.45 pm and declared their intention to sell their son. Following the information, operatives from the division swiftly moved to the hospital.

“The baby’s age is two and he has been rescued. Upon interrogation, the couple confessed that they decided to sell the two years old baby to fund the man travelling to Canada for a greener pastures."