The Sokoto State Police Command says it has arrested the prime suspect in the kidnap case of a toddler.
The 18-year-old suspect, Abba Aliyu, is said to be a neighbour to the complainant from the Badon Hanya area of Sokoto State.
A statement made available to newsmen in the state on Saturday by the spokesman of the command, ASP Ahmed Rufai, said on October 16, 2024, 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, 2024, at 1800 hrs.
“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 N500,000 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,” the Command said.
The statement further said the state Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Musa, reiterated the command’s commitment to combating crime and praised personnel efforts in ensuring the successful arrest of the suspect.
The CP also gave some hints on how parents can safeguard their children against criminal elements which includes educating the children on basic safety protocols.
“Teach them to identify trusted adults and report suspicious activities, avoid walking alone as well as encourage the children to use the buddy system.
“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,” he counselled.
