This article details a child trafficking operation in Indonesia where a group used Facebook and WhatsApp to connect with parents willing to sell their babies.The babies were often “booked” during pregnancy, with payment made after birth.They were then cared for by caregivers for a few months before being sent to Jakarta and Pontianak for document processing, including birth certificates and passports.
The police have identified that at least 25 babies (12 boys and 13 girls) have been sold,with many having their identities changed. Authorities are working with Interpol and Singaporean police to track down overseas buyers and group members.
Crucially, the article states that parents in all cases agreed to sell their children. While this means there were no kidnappings, the police are investigating whether the parents could face charges related to child protection and human trafficking due to their participation in the transactions.Financial difficulties are cited as a potential reason for parents agreeing to sell their children.
The trafficking groups reportedly target women in tough situations, such as victims of sexual violence, those abandoned by their husbands, or those with unplanned pregnancies, especially given Indonesia’s strict abortion laws.
The Indonesian Child protection Commission (KPAI) notes a notable increase in illegal adoption and child trafficking cases, with a rise from 11 cases in 2020 to 59 in 2023. The price of babies varies by region and appearance, with prices in Java ranging from 11 to 15 million rupiah and in Bali from 20 to 26 million rupiah.
