A newborn baby allegedly stolen from its mother in Zuru Local Government Area of Kebbi State has been recovered, while a 19-year-old woman, Khadija Ibrahim, has been arrested in connection with the incident.
The Kebbi State Police Command said Ibrahim, a resident of Rikoto in Zuru LGA, allegedly took the baby shortly after its mother, Fatima Muhammad, gave birth on July 23, 2026.
According to a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, the suspect had offered to help the new mother by fetching hot water but allegedly used the opportunity to flee with the newborn.
The Police alleged that Ibrahim subsequently presented the baby to her husband as their child after reportedly deceiving him for about nine months into believing that she was pregnant.
Following sustained investigation, police operatives arrested the suspect on August 14 and recovered the baby, who was subsequently reunited with the biological mother.
The Command said Ibrahim remained in custody and would be arraigned in court after the completion of the investigation.
The Commissioner of Police, Umar M. Hadejia, commended the officers involved in the operation for their diligence and professionalism, particularly for ensuring the safe recovery of the child.
The Police Command also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children and ensuring that anyone found culpable of the alleged offence is brought to justice.
