Chinese police busted four major online baby-trafficking groups and saved 382 babies earlier this month, the Ministry of Public Security announced on Thursday.

A total of 1,094 suspects were seized across the country in a joint maneuver on February 19, according to the ministry.

These groups are accused of trading babies by establishing illegal online platforms and shops under the name of adoption or re-homing centers.

Criminals have turned to the Internet for illegal human trafficking in recent years, which brings difficulties for investigation, police said.

The ministry vowed a reinforced crackdown on human trafficking and said it is capable of coping with any cunning criminals.