Russians uncover Chechen baby-selling ring

Russia’s Federal Security Service today said it had uncovered a ring selling newborn babies in the Chechen capital, Grozny.

One of the apartments used by the alleged ring was outfitted with gynaecological and obstetric equipment, agency spokesman Yuri Rossinsky said on NTV television. He said it was the second such ring discovered in Chechnya in the past two years.

The Interfax news agency quoted Rossinsky as saying the mothers were paid in jewellery or cash for their babies: €3,900 for boys, less for girls.

Demand for babies has grown in Chechnya due to the growing incidence of childless families because of the two wars and deteriorating environment, Interfax said.