China rescues 89 'trafficked' children

Chinese authorities have rescued 89 trafficked children and arrested 369 suspects after uncovering two trafficking gangs.

A report by the People’s Daily posted on the Ministry of Public Security’s website said one operation was carried out on July 20 in 14 provinces.

It said it involved 2,600 officers and the youngest child rescued was 10 days old and the oldest four years.

The other operation was carried out on July 15. A separate People’s Daily report says it resulted in the rescue of eight infants aged from 10 days to seven months. Authorities detained 39 people. At least four were Vietnamese.

China’s thriving black market in children endures despite harsh penalties, including death. Many babies are stolen but some are sold by their parents.