Musa Na Allah Sokto
Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Musa, on Friday, reaffirmed his command’s commitment to sustained action against violent criminals.
In a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Rufa’e Abubakar, said operatives have cracked down on a kidnapping syndicate and arrested 18-year-old prime suspect, Abba Aliyu, who was a neighbour to the complainant in Badon Hanya area Sokoto.
According to the statement, on 16 October 2024, at about noon, Mr Ibrahim Shehu reported to the Anti-kidnapping unit attached to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Sokoto that his 2 years old son, Saidu Ibrahim had been missing since 13 October 2024.
The statement further stated that despite efforts to locate him, his whereabouts remained unknown until the abductor demanded N2 million ransom for the release of his victim via a phone call.
The sum of five hundred thousand Naira (N500,000) was, however, paid to the suspect before the 2-year-old victim regained freedom.
The statement revealed that detectives from the state CID swiftly coordinated intelligence-led operations, tracing the location of the suspect at Badon Hanya behind Zamson filling station.
During the investigation, the suspect confessed to having kidnapped the victim and held him hostage to extort money from his parent.
He said he used a TECNO android brand mobile phone in demanding the ransom which was recovered from him when he was arrested.
The state Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Musa, reiterated the command’s commitment to combating crime and praised his personnel efforts in ensuring the successful arrest of the suspected kidnapper.
The statement however highlighted some safety tips for parents to safeguard their children against criminal elements which should be strictly enforced;
I. Educate Your Children on Basic Safety Protocols.
II. Teach them to identify trusted adults and report suspicious activities.
III. The command advised the public to avoid Walking Alone and encourage their children to use the buddy system.
IV. Stay in Well-Lit Areas: Remind them to avoid isolated or dark areas
V. Never Accept Gifts or Rides from Strangers warn them about potential lures.
IV. Report Suspicious Activities of Individuals and encourage open communication.
