Manila, Feb 17: A couple in Philippines has been arrested after they allegedly tried to sell their 12-day-old baby to raise money for a street food business.

According to reports, the couple was apprehended during a sting operation by police at a busy shopping mall Here on February 2.

Acting on reliable inputs, officers posing as buyers reached near the couple and purchased the baby for 27500 Philippine Pesos (Rs 43113) as per the deal.

After confirming the details of the transaction, officers from the Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Centre arrested the couple at a local fast food outlet inside the mall.

Police said the suspects were taken into custody. During this, the mother of the newborn confessed to the planned sale before she was placed in handcuffs.

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If convicted of human trafficking, the couple could face up to 20 years in prison. In more serious circumstances, the sentence could extend to life imprisonment.