Audio By Carbonatix
A US woman has been charged with human trafficking in the Philippines after she allegedly attempted to smuggle a newborn baby out of the country.
Jennifer Talbot, 43, was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila on Wednesday.
A six-day-old boy was reportedly found in her carry-on bag as she attempted to board a plane to the US.
Authorities allege that Ms Talbot did not declare the baby to immigration officials.
The Philippine National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) alleges that Ms Talbot intended to "conceal and sneak the baby out".
Ms Talbot is accused of violating human trafficking laws in the Philippines
The baby's mother and father have been charged under a child protection law, authorities said. The boy has been placed in the custody of social services.
Ms Talbot, from Ohio, was not able to provide a boarding pass or any documentation for the baby, the agency said.
Wearing an orange shirt and in handcuffs, Ms Talbot attended a news conference on Thursday, when the charges against her were announced. She made no comment.
If found guilty, she could face life in prison, Manuel Dimaano, head of the NBI's airport division, told reporters.
US Embassy officials have been informed of Ms Talbot's arrest, the Associated Press reported.
Following her arrest, Ms Talbot did present a document which she claimed gave her consent to take the baby to the US, the NBI said.
But the document was not signed by the baby's mother, the agency said.
Ms Talbot is accused of violating human trafficking laws in the Philippines
The baby's mother and father have been charged under a child protection law, authorities said. The boy has been placed in the custody of social services.
Ms Talbot, from Ohio, was not able to provide a boarding pass or any documentation for the baby, the agency said.
Wearing an orange shirt and in handcuffs, Ms Talbot attended a news conference on Thursday, when the charges against her were announced. She made no comment.
If found guilty, she could face life in prison, Manuel Dimaano, head of the NBI's airport division, told reporters.
US Embassy officials have been informed of Ms Talbot's arrest, the Associated Press reported.
Following her arrest, Ms Talbot did present a document which she claimed gave her consent to take the baby to the US, the NBI said.
But the document was not signed by the baby's mother, the agency said.DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Tags:
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Latest Stories
-
Ghana’s global image boosted by our world-acclaimed reset agenda – Mahama
3 minutes -
Full text: Mahama’s New Year message to the nation
4 minutes -
The foundation is laid; now we accelerate and expand in 2026 – Mahama
23 minutes -
There is no NPP, CPP nor NDC Ghana, only one Ghana – Mahama
25 minutes -
Eduwatch praises education financing gains but warns delays, teacher gaps could derail reforms
39 minutes -
Kusaal Wikimedians take local language online in 14-day digital campaign
1 hour -
Stop interfering in each other’s roles – Bole-Bamboi MP appeals to traditional rulers for peace
2 hours -
Playback: President Mahama addressed the nation in New Year message
2 hours -
Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union call for strong work ethics, economic participation in 2026 new year message
4 hours -
Crossover Joy: Churches in Ghana welcome 2026 with fire and faith
4 hours -
Traffic chaos on Accra–Kumasi Highway leaves hundreds stranded as diversions gridlock
4 hours -
Luv FM Family Party in the Park: Hundreds of families flock to Luv FM family party as more join the queue in excitement
4 hours -
Failure to resolve galamsey menace could send gov’t to opposition – Dr Asah-Asante warns
4 hours -
Leadership Lunch & Learn December edition empowers women leaders with practical insights
4 hours -
12 of the best TV shows to watch this January
5 hours
