The Niger State Police Command has apprehended two individuals in connection with the abduction of a four-week-old infant in Minna, the state capital. The suspects, identified as 24-year-old Chidi Johnson, also known as “Yaron Pastor,” and 22-year-old Zainab Ibrahim, were taken into custody following a police investigation into the incident that occurred on July 14 near the Mobil Roundabout area.
Police Statement on the Arrest
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Wasi’u Abiodun, disclosed the details in an official statement released in Minna. According to him, the case was first reported at the A Division Police Station, prompting detectives to launch an investigation that ultimately led to the arrest of Johnson.
Suspect Confession and Modus Operandi
Police reports indicate that Johnson confessed during interrogation that Zainab had approached him to procure a newborn after she allegedly lost her pregnancy. Investigators allege that Johnson deceived a nursing mother by claiming that a benefactor wished to give her baby food items and alms. He reportedly persuaded the woman and her four-week-old baby to accompany him to an uncompleted building near the Mobil Roundabout.
Abiodun explained that after offering the mother and her companion snacks and soft drinks to gain their trust, Johnson took the baby under the pretense of playing with the child before escaping through the rear exit of the building on a waiting motorcycle. The police statement reads: “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.”
Rescue and Reunion
Following the abduction, police apprehended Zainab Ibrahim, and the baby was safely rescued and reunited with the mother. Abiodun confirmed that both suspects are currently under investigation and will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of the inquiry.
