The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested two suspected kidnappers and rescued a 14-year-old boy during a coordinated operation in Ka’oje, Bagudo Local Government Area of the state.
According to the Command’s spokesperson, the incident occurred after a gang of five armed men invaded the residence of one Alhaji Buda Sambo, a 55-year-old resident of Sire Here village, where they abducted his son, Aliyu Alhaji Buda.
Upon receiving credible intelligence, the Divisional Police Officer in Ka’oje swiftly mobilized his men, supported by local vigilante groups, to track the suspects to their hideout in Sada Forest. A fierce gun duel ensued, leading to the arrest of two suspects identified as Aliyu Alhaji Shehu (alias Altine), aged 25, and Abubakar Umar (alias Bube).
The police successfully rescued the victim unhurt and reunited him with his family after a medical examination. During the operation, a locally-made revolver pistol and one live ammunition were recovered from the suspects’ residence.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the arrested suspects confessed to the abduction and named four other accomplices—Dogo, Magaji, Bande, and Janyo—who are currently at large. They also admitted to another kidnapping incident that took place on October 28, 2025, where a 70-year-old man identified as Alhaji Alti was abducted.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, commended the officers and local vigilantes for their gallantry and swift response, noting that their effort prevented what could have been another tragic incident. He directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Birnin Kebbi for further investigation and possible prosecution of the culprits.
The Command assured residents of its unwavering commitment to rid the state of criminal elements, urging communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
Kidnapping for ransom has become a recurring security challenge across northern Nigeria, with rural communities often bearing the brunt of these attacks. The Kebbi Police Command’s recent success underscores the effectiveness of community-police collaboration in combating the menace.