The Sokoto Police Command says its operatives have arrested Abba Aliyu, an 18-year-old suspected kidnapper, in area of Badon Hanya state.
In a statement Saturday, command spokesman Ahmed Rufai said agents rescued the suspect, a two-year-old boy.
Ibrahim Shehu, the victim’s father, filed a report that his son Saidu Ibrahim had gone missing on October 13.
The statement said Aliyu, a neighbor of the complainant, was detained by the police after he demanded a ransom of N2 million.
“On October 16, at about 12:00 p.m., Ibrahim Shehu informed the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department, Sokoto, that his two-year-old son Saidu Ibrahim had gone missing on October 13 at 6:00 p.m.,” the statement read.
“Despite efforts to locate him, his whereabouts remained unknown until the kidnapper demanded N2 million over the phone for his release.
“Thereafter, an amount of five hundred thousand naira was paid before the victim regained his freedom.
“Detectives quickly coordinated intelligence-led operations, locating the suspect in Badon hanya behind the Zamson gas station, which led to his arrest.
“During the investigation, the suspect admitted to kidnapping the victim and holding him hostage in order to extort money from his parent. One Android Tecno mobile phone used to demand ransom was recovered from him.
Ahmed Musa, Sokoto Police Commissioner, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to fighting crime. He also praised the efforts of the officers who rescued the abducted boy and arrested the perpetrator.
Musa advised parents to protect their children and educate them on basic safety measures.
“Teach them to identify trusted adults and report suspicious activity, avoid walking alone and encourage children to use the buddy system,” he said.
“Others include staying in well-lit areas, avoiding isolated or dark areas, never accepting gifts or rides from strangers, warning them about potential baits, reporting suspicious activities or people, and encouraging open communication with them.”
