The Niger State Police Command has successfully rescued a six-month-old baby who was abducted by her cousin, allegedly for sale in Abuja.
The incident took place in the Kwamba area of Suleja last Saturday when the baby’s mother left her in the care of her cousin, Joy Nuwa, while she stepped out to run an errand.
Instead of safeguarding the child, Nuwa, in collaboration with some neighbours, reportedly kidnapped the baby and transported her to Kubwa, Abuja, intending to sell her.
However, their plan was foiled after the baby’s disappearance was reported to the Niger State Police.
A swift investigation led to the recovery of the infant and her safe return to the mother.
Confirming the development in a statement on Friday, the State Police Command’s Spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, revealed that all suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation and prosecution.
“On 25th January 2025, at about 9am, Police operatives attached to Maje Div arrested four suspects who are; Joy Nuwa (20) of Nasarawa, Favour James (25) of Kwamba, Ezekiel Emmanuel (30), Kwamba and Patience Obana (23) of Kubwa, Abuja.”
Detailing the sequence of events, Abiodun stated, “On 24th January 2025 at about 10pm, a report of a missing baby was made at Maje Div that on same date at about 9.30pm, a mother of a six-month-old baby at Kwamba area of Suleja, left the baby with her cousin named Joy Nuwa, and went out for a message.”
“Upon the return of the mother, she discovered that the baby and Joy were not at home, and she immediately contacted the said cousin who claimed she left the baby in the house and locked the door.
“In the course of an investigation, it was discovered that there was no breaking into the room, which led to the interrogation of neighbours. Emmanuel Ezekiel and Favour James of the same compound were arrested. Emmanuel confessed that they conspired with Joy and took the baby to one Patience Obana of Kubwa, FCT Abuja to facilitate the sale of the baby.
“The said Joy, Favour and Patience were later arrested through Emmanuel and the baby was rescued unhurt. All suspects have been transferred to SCID Minna for further investigation and diligent prosecution,” he added.
The police assured that all those involved in the crime would face justice.
