The Niger State Police Command has arrested two suspects for allegedly abducting a four-week-old baby in Minna, the state capital, in a case that has sparked widespread concern over child safety in the region. The suspects, identified as 24-year-old Chidi Johnson, also known as “Yaron Pastor,” and 22-year-old Zainab Ibrahim, were apprehended following a thorough investigation into the incident, which occurred on July 14 near the Mobil Roundabout area. The baby was rescued and safely reunited with its mother after being taken from a nursing mother under false pretenses. Police confirmed that both suspects are now in custody and will be arraigned in court once the investigation is complete.
The case was reported to the A Division Police Station in Minna, prompting detectives to launch an immediate investigation. SP Wasi’u Abiodun, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, disclosed the details in a statement issued in the state capital. According to Abiodun, Johnson confessed during questioning that Zainab Ibrahim had approached him with the intent to obtain a newborn baby after she allegedly lost her own pregnancy. This confession formed a key part of the evidence leading to the suspects’ arrest.
Investigators revealed that Johnson used deception to gain the trust of the nursing mother. He told her that a benefactor wanted to provide baby food items and alms, a claim that persuaded the woman and her infant to accompany him to an uncompleted building near the Mobil Roundabout. Once inside, Johnson offered the mother and her companion snacks and soft drinks, allegedly to build rapport and lower their guard. After gaining their confidence, he pretended to play with the baby before making a swift escape through the rear exit of the building on a waiting motorcycle.
Abiodun emphasized that the suspect’s actions were premeditated and calculated. “After offering them snacks and soft drinks to gain their confidence, the suspect pretended to play with the baby before escaping through the rear exit of the building on a waiting motorcycle with the child,” he stated. The police acted swiftly, leading to the arrest of Johnson first, followed by Zainab Ibrahim, who was apprehended after being linked to the scheme. The baby was recovered in good health and returned to its mother without harm.
Both suspects are currently being held at the police station and are undergoing further interrogation. The police have assured the public that they are committed to ensuring justice is served. This incident has raised alarms about child safety and the need for increased vigilance, especially in public areas. Authorities are urging parents and caregivers to remain cautious and report any suspicious activities. The case is expected to proceed to court, where the suspects will face charges related to child abduction and conspiracy. This development underscores the importance of community awareness and cooperation with law enforcement in preventing such crimes.
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