Suspected Kidnapper Arrested in Niger State After Victim’s Father Recognizes Him

A suspected kidnapper has been arrested in Niger State after the father of his alleged victim spotted him in public and raised the alarm.

Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the arrest in a statement on Monday, August 11, 2025. The suspect, identified as Mohammed Rabiu from Lambata in Gurara Local Government Area, was taken into custody by officers of the Kpakungu Division in Minna.

According to police reports, Rabiu was part of a gang that invaded Dagwi village in 2023 and kidnapped a 10-year-old boy. The abductors later freed the child after collecting a ransom of ₦300,000, cartons of energy drinks, packets of cigarettes, foodstuffs, and recharge cards from his family.

On August 2, 2025, the boy’s father spotted Rabiu in the Barkin-Sale area of Minna and immediately alerted residents and police, leading to his arrest.

During interrogation, Rabiu allegedly confessed to the kidnapping and named his accomplices as Mahmuda, Aminu, Ibrahim, Yellow, Muazu, and Lago. He also admitted to being involved in the killing of a farmer in the same area in 2023, revealing that their victims were often taken to Washa forest near Beji.

The police say investigations are ongoing and efforts are underway to track down the remaining members of the gang.