Gabriel Okon Ekpiri, a middle aged man, arrested by men of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Akwa-ibom state command, for selling his 9-year-old son, has blamed economic hardship for his action.

The suspect who hails from Ekit Itam Akpanobong community in Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom state sold his offspring for N400,000.

During interrogation, the suspect confessed to have sold his son but explained he had to do it to take care of his economic challenges, as according to him, times were hard.

The suspect in his confessional statement, also faulted the devil for luring him to commit the crime.

SP Odiko MacDon, the command spokesperson while briefing newsmen on Tuesday gave assurance that all involved in trafficking the child will be made to face the wrath of the law, as the police have put in measures to arrest the yet to be known buyers of the child.

He further disclosed that CP Olatoye Durosinmi, the state Commissioner of Police, who is displeased with the development has ordered that some tactical operatives be put in place, so that the child whose whereabouts is currently unknown can be rescued.

MacDon said the CP who condemned the act, described it as barbaric and totally unacceptable, while adding that nothing justifies the crime perpetrated by the suspect.

The CP who commended the Intervention Squad for the prompt arrest of the Suspect also vowed to ensure the suspect and all involved are brought to book.