Kebbi State Police Command has arrested a 19-year-old woman, Khadija Ibrahim, over the alleged abduction of a newborn baby in Zuru Local Government Area of the state.
Police said the suspect, who hails from Rikoto in Zuru LGA, was taken into custody following an investigation that led to the recovery of the baby, who has since been reunited with the child’s biological mother.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, the incident occurred on July 23, 2026, shortly after Fatima Muhammad gave birth.
The statement explained that the suspect allegedly volunteered to help the new mother by fetching hot water but disappeared with the newborn instead.
Investigators further alleged that Khadija later presented the baby to her husband as their own after reportedly deceiving him for about nine months into believing she was pregnant.
The Command said sustained investigative efforts led to the suspect’s arrest on August 14, 2026, while the stolen baby was successfully rescued and returned safely to the biological mother.
Police confirmed that the suspect remains in custody and will be arraigned in court once investigations are concluded.
Commenting on the development, the Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, Umar M. Hadejia, commended the officers involved in the operation for their professionalism and dedication, which ensured both the arrest of the suspect and the safe recovery of the infant.
The Police Command also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children, investigating crimes thoroughly, and ensuring that anyone found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law.
