The Kano State Police Command has rescued a two-year-old boy who was kidnapped in Kano State and arrested three suspects linked to the crime. The police also recovered most of the ransom paid by the victim’s family.
The development was confirmed in a press statement issued on Friday and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police.
According to the statement, the incident was first reported on April 19 by a resident of Gwammaja Quarters in Dala Local Government Area of Kano State. The complainant said his two-year-old son, identified as Aliyu Muhammad, was abducted in front of their home by unknown persons.
The report said the kidnappers later contacted the family and demanded a ransom of ₦1 million for the child’s release. The family, in fear for the child’s safety, reportedly paid the money. However, despite receiving the ransom, the suspects did not release the boy.
Kidnapping for ransom has become a growing concern in parts of northern Nigeria in recent years. Criminal groups often target vulnerable individuals, including children, and demand money from families before releasing them. In some cases, victims are harmed even after ransom payments are made, raising public fear and anger.
Following the report of the kidnapping, the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, ordered the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad to immediately begin a full investigation. He directed officers to use all available intelligence and operational tools to locate the suspects and rescue the child safely.
The police said the team carried out sustained intelligence gathering and technical tracking, which eventually led them to the hideout of the suspects in Gwammaja Quarters.
Three suspects were arrested during the operation. They were identified as Hassan Umar, 26; Abdullahi Hamisu, 19; and Hussaini Saminu, 24. Police said all three are residents of the same area where the victim lives.
Investigators later discovered that the kidnapped child was being kept inside the residence of one of the suspects, Hussaini Saminu. Officers moved in and rescued the boy without harm.
The child was immediately taken into protective care and later reunited with his family, bringing relief to relatives and residents who had followed the case with concern.
Police also recovered ₦930,000 from the suspects. The money is believed to be part of the ransom paid by the victim’s family, suggesting that most of the ransom had not yet been spent or shared among the suspects at the time of their arrest.
The Commissioner of Police praised the Anti-Kidnapping Squad for their swift response and successful rescue operation. He described their efforts as professional, well-coordinated, and effective in ensuring the safe return of the child.
He also acknowledged the support and technical assistance provided by the Office of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, which he said contributed to the success of the operation.
The police boss warned criminal elements that Kano State would not be a safe place for kidnapping or any form of violent crime. He stressed that the Command would continue to use all lawful means to track down offenders and ensure they face prosecution.
“The Command will not relent in its efforts to ensure that Kano remains safe for all residents,” the statement said.
He further urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, especially in residential areas, and to report any suspicious movements or activities to security agencies promptly. According to him, community cooperation is important in preventing crimes such as kidnapping.
In recent years, Kano State has witnessed several cases of kidnapping, though police authorities say efforts are ongoing to reduce such incidents. The Command has increased patrols, surveillance, and intelligence operations, especially in areas considered vulnerable.
Residents of Gwammaja Quarters expressed relief over the safe rescue of the toddler, but also raised concerns about safety in their community. Some called for increased security presence and closer monitoring of suspicious activities.
Child kidnapping cases have become a serious security challenge in parts of Nigeria, prompting repeated calls for stronger policing and tougher punishment for offenders. Authorities believe that consistent arrests and successful rescue operations can help discourage the crime.
The latest rescue is seen as a positive outcome for the police, who have faced pressure to improve response to kidnapping cases. It also highlights the role of intelligence-led policing in solving complex criminal cases.
As investigations continue, the police say efforts are ongoing to determine whether the arrested suspects are part of a larger criminal network operating in the area.
For now, the rescued child has been safely reunited with his family, while the suspects remain in custody and are expected to face prosecution after investigations are completed.