The Cyberabad Special Operations Team (SOT) has busted a large interstate infant trafficking racket operating across multiple states, exposing a grim trade in newborns sold for huge sums of money. The syndicate allegedly sold each infant for nearly ₹15 lakh, targeting wealthy childless couples under the guise of legal adoption.

12 Arrested, Nationwide Network Uncovered

Police arrested 12 individuals linked to the organised network, including key masterminds, transporters, and hospital-based agents. Officials said the accused had criminal histories in several states, highlighting the scale and persistence of the operation. According to investigators, the gang had already sold at least 15 infants in the Hyderabad region before the racket was dismantled.

Investigations revealed that the racket had deep connections within the healthcare system. The accused allegedly worked with intermediaries and staff across at least eight hospitals. These agents reportedly identified vulnerable biological parents or “unwanted” births and arranged for infants to be taken shortly after delivery.

Babies Sourced From Other States

Police said infants were frequently sourced from cities such as Ahmedabad and transported across state lines to Hyderabad. Once brought to Telangana, the babies were handed over to prospective buyers using forged documents to make the illegal adoption appear legitimate.

The syndicate focused on financially well-off couples who were desperate to have children. Forged paperwork, including fake adoption records, was allegedly provided to avoid legal scrutiny. Authorities said the accused exploited both vulnerable parents and hopeful adoptive families for profit.

Two Infants Rescued

During coordinated raids, police rescued two infants from the traffickers. The babies have been shifted to a state-run childcare facility, where they are undergoing medical examinations and receiving protection.

“The babies are hardly a few days old. Those arrested have previous cases booked against them in multiple states. We want to ensure the action we take serves as a deterrent,” said Madhapur DCP Ritiraj.

Police Vow Strict Action

Madhapur Deputy Commissioner of Police Ritiraj said strict action would be taken to ensure deterrence. Cyberabad police are now examining hospital records, financial transactions, and bank accounts to trace money trails and identify other medical professionals who may have assisted the racket.

Police are coordinating with Gujarat authorities to trace the biological parents of the rescued infants and to identify other children sold through the illegal network. Officials said further arrests are likely as the investigation deepens.

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