Why Singapore, Indonesia are reviewing adoptions after baby trafficking allegations
Singapore and Indonesia are reviewing cross-border adoptions after allegations emerged that babies were trafficked from Indonesia to Singapore through an illegal adoption network.
In a joint statement on January 9, Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Social and Family Development said they are working with Indonesian authorities to verify the circumstances of children brought into Singapore for adoption. The move follows arrests in Indonesia last year linked to a suspected baby trafficking ring.
Indonesian police in West Java detained about a dozen suspects in mid-2025, accusing them of running an illegal network that allegedly trafficked newborn babies, mainly to Singapore. Local authorities believe the syndicate had been operating since 2023 and may have moved at least 25 infants.
Singaporean authorities said they have asked Indonesia’s police and social affairs ministry to share investigation findings and are assisting with inquiries at Indonesia’s request. The police are also checking information related to three Singaporeans allegedly linked to the case.
While investigations continue, some adoption-related processes in Singapore have been affected. Officials said citizenship applications for children linked to the case have been delayed, and adoptive parents are being engaged to explain the situation.
The Singapore government acknowledged the anxiety caused to families involved and said it is working to resolve cases as quickly as possible while safeguarding the welfare of the children.
Both governments say the review aims to ensure that adoption processes are lawful, transparent and focused on the best interests of the children, while holding any individuals involved in trafficking fully accountable.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
