Police arrest 18-year-old boy for ‘kidnapping neighbour’s son’ in Sokoto

The Sokoto police command says its operatives have arrested Abba Aliyu, an 18-year-old suspected kidnapper, in the Badon Hanya area of the state.

In a statement on Saturday, Ahmed Rufai, the command spokesperson, said operatives rescued a two-year-old boy from the suspect.

Ibrahim Shehu, father of the victim, was said to have filed a report that Saidu Ibrahim, his son, went missing on October 13.

The statement said Aliyu, who is a neighbour of the complainant, was apprehended by the police after he demanded a ransom of N2 million.

“On October 16 at about 1200hrs, Ibrahim Shehu reported to the Anti kidnapping unit attached to the Criminal Investigation Department Sokoto that his son, Saidu Ibrahim, two years old had gone missing since October 13, at 1800 hrs,” the statement reads.

“Despite efforts to locate him, his whereabouts remained unknown until the abductor demanded N2 million for his release via phone call.

“After which the sum of five hundred thousand naira was paid before the victim regained freedom.

“Detectives swiftly coordinated intelligence-led operations, tracing the location of the suspect at Badon hanya behind Zamson filling station which led to his arrest.

“During investigation, the suspect confessed to have kidnapped the victim and held him hostage, with a view to extort money from his parent. While one Tecno android mobile used in demanding for the ransom was recovered from him.”

Ahmed Musa, the police commissioner in Sokoto, reaffirmed the command’s dedication to fighting crime. He also lauded the efforts of the officers who rescued the abducted boy and apprehended the perpetrator.

Musa advised parents to protect their children and educate them about basic safety measures.

“Teach them to identify trusted adults and report suspicious activities, avoid walking alone, and encourage the 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 lures, reporting suspicious activities or individuals, and encouraging open communication with them.”