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Guatemalan adoptions linked to baby selling

Authorities say a Guatemalan congressman's sister has been charged with human trafficking after police found nine children in her home awaiting illegal adoption.
/ Source: The Associated Press

A Guatemalan congressman's sister was charged with human trafficking after police found nine children in her home awaiting illegal adoption, authorities said.

Lawmaker Gudy Rivera Estrada said he hasn't seen his sister in three years and won't "lift a finger to help her."

Rosalina Rivera Estrada was arrested Tuesday and could face 12 years in prison.

The children were between 7 months and 1 year old. Attorney General Baudilio Portillo said Wednesday the children were placed in temporary homes while police investigate.

Guatemala has been the No. 2 source of adopted babies to U.S. parents after China, but the system is plagued with corruption.

The government on Monday froze for review 2,286 pending foreign adoptions.