The Beninese government, through its Ministry of Social Affairs and Microfinance, has uncovered fraudulent advertisements circulating on TikTok and other platforms in which unauthorized individuals claim to arrange child adoptions.
Authorities say these illegal offers not only amount to criminal scams but also expose vulnerable children to serious risks, including trafficking and exploitation, in breach of national legislation and international agreements ratified by the state.
Officials have stressed that any such online promotion of adoption services is unlawful and poses grave dangers to child protection.
The government reiterated that the Central Authority for International Adoption in Benin (ACAIB) is the sole institution authorized to oversee the administrative process for international adoptions, while the judicial phase remains strictly under the jurisdiction of competent courts.
ACAIB President Georgette Evelyne Amen Y. Quenum condemned the illicit practices and affirmed that efforts are underway to identify and dismantle the networks involved.
Authorities warned that those responsible will face prosecution and urged citizens to report suspicious advertisements to safeguard children across the country.
