Borno Police Command Apprehends Five Suspected Kidnappers, Rescues Minor, and Recovers N1.5 Million Ransom in Maiduguri
The Borno State Police Command has successfully arrested five individuals suspected of kidnapping, leading to the rescue of a seven-year-old boy and the recovery of a N1.5 million ransom in Maiduguri, the state capital. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and ensure public safety in the region.
Details of the Kidnapping and Ransom Demands
According to the police, the abduction was reported by the child's parents on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at approximately 3:30 p.m. to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). The incident occurred at the Chad Basin Development Authority (CBDA) staff quarters located along the Maiduguri-Dikwa Road. The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of N10 million, which was later reduced to N8 million. Ultimately, the child's mother paid N1.5 million to the suspects through a Point of Sale (POS) account.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Nahum Daso, the spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, stated that following an intensive digital forensic analysis and tracking, police detectives traced the account used for the ransom payment. This led to the arrest of a POS operator identified as Musa Mohammed Bashir. Subsequently, four additional suspects were apprehended for their roles in coordinating the abduction operations across the Chad Basin and Bulabulin Alajiri areas of Maiduguri.
The police confirmed that the child was rescued unharmed and underwent a medical evaluation before being safely reunited with his parents. The N1.5 million ransom was fully recovered during the operation.
Commendation and Commitment to Security
Commissioner of Police Naziru Abdulmajid commended the detectives for their swift response and effective work in resolving the case. He reaffirmed the Command's commitment to intelligence-led policing, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance and timely information sharing with security agencies. Investigations into the kidnapping are ongoing to ensure all involved parties are held accountable.
This incident underscores the persistent challenges of kidnapping in Nigeria and the critical role of law enforcement in protecting citizens, particularly vulnerable groups like children. The successful rescue and ransom recovery serve as a testament to the dedication of the Borno State Police Command in maintaining security and justice.
