The Taraba State Police Command has launched a manhunt for a security guard, Amos Kini, who allegedly abducted his employer’s two-year-old son and demanded a ransom of N5 million for his release.
The suspect, employed as a private security guard, reportedly fled with the toddler, Ivan Okosun, on Sunday, shortly after the boy’s mother, Mrs. Ujuwan Okosun, left him in the care of the guard at their residence.
In her report to the police, Mrs. Okosun disclosed that the suspect also disappeared with her mobile phone, which he later used to contact her husband. Using the same phone, Kini allegedly demanded N5 million to release the child safely.
Shocked by the incident, the family reported the matter to the police, prompting immediate action from the command.
According to police sources, detectives swiftly visited the scene and arrested Aruna Dauda, who was listed as the guarantor for the fleeing guard during his employment process.
“The command has intensified efforts to track down the suspect and rescue the child unhurt,” a police source said. “Investigation is ongoing, and we are working with available intelligence to ensure the child is found and reunited with his family.”
The incident has sparked concern among residents of Jalingo and other parts of the state, as cases involving domestic workers and security staff continue to raise questions about trust and background checks.
The Taraba State Police Command has appealed to members of the public to remain calm but vigilant, and to report any suspicious movement or information that could aid the arrest of the suspect.
“We urge residents to be security conscious and to verify the identity and background of domestic staff before employment,” the police spokesperson added.
Cases of child abduction and kidnapping have remained a growing concern across Nigeria, especially with domestic staff often found complicit in some cases. Experts have advised families to work closely with law enforcement during recruitment and to regularly monitor the behavior of their domestic workers.
As of the time of this report, the child has not yet been found, but the police have assured that every effort is being made to rescue him safely and bring the suspect to justice.
