The Nigeria Police Force in Bauchi State has arrested a 20-year-old suspect, Rabiu Safiyanu, over the alleged abduction and killing of a four-year-old boy, Yunusa Salisu.
The suspect was apprehended by detectives from the ‘C’ Divisional Headquarters following a report filed by the victim’s father, Salisu Yunusa, who resides in the Nasarawa Madina area of Bauchi. He had reported that his son went missing on March 18 after leaving home earlier that morning.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Nafiu Habib, the situation escalated when the father received a call from an unknown individual demanding a ransom of N500,000 for the child’s release. In a desperate attempt to save his son, he paid N100,000, but the child was not returned.
Police investigations later led to the arrest of Safiyanu, who lived in the same neighborhood and was reportedly known to the family. Authorities revealed that his relationship with the victim’s relatives gave him access to the home.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to abducting the child, strangling him, and disposing of the body at Warinje Hills. He then proceeded to demand ransom from the family in an attempt to conceal the crime.
Police operatives subsequently recovered the decomposing body of the child, which showed signs of strangulation. A rope believed to have been used in the act was also found at the scene. The remains were later confirmed dead by a police medical officer and released to the family for burial.
The Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to take over the case to ensure a thorough investigation and prosecution of the suspect.
He also urged members of the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities promptly to aid law enforcement efforts in preventing such crimes.
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