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MANILA : Singaporean Irene Low is now in police custody in the Philippines, after being arrested for links to an alleged baby trafficking operation.
But Low, who owns an adoption agency in Singapore, said it was all a misunderstanding. She said she was at the wrong place at the wrong time when police raided the house of a former mayor for an alleged cheque fraud case.
The police had discovered nine babies in one room and learned that the house was being used by the Jalajala Home for the Needy Angels, which was operating without a licence.
She and 12 others were arrested by the police for alleged baby trafficking.
"I often come here to look at the babies, and I always donate. Whenever I come, I buy lots and lots... of milk powder, diapers and medicines... I bring them all the way here with me. The purpose is to make them healthy, happy," said Low, who runs the Fox Family Services Adoption Centre.
Low is charged by the police with violation of the child and youth welfare code. If found guilty, she may face the maximum penalty of up to 6 months' jail and a fine of US$10.
Low's lawyer said his client did not know that the children's home she was helping was operating illegally.
"She did not operate the agency. She was misled that the agency had licence, and she acted in good faith," said lawyer Hercules Cabug-Os.
Low remains in police custody pending the decision of the prosecutor's office whether she has indeed violated the country's child and youth welfare code. - CNA /ls
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