Police in Niger State have caught a man accused of kidnapping a 10-year-old boy, after the victim’s father spotted him and raised an alarm.

According to a statement released on Monday, August 11, 2025, police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed that the suspect, identified as Mohammed Rabiu, was arrested in the Barkin-Sale area of Minna.

Investigations revealed that Rabiu was part of a gang that attacked a settlement in Dagwi village back in 2023 and abducted the young boy.

The victim was later freed after his family paid a ransom of ₦300,000, along with a carton of energy drinks and other items.

Police reported that on August 2, 2025, around 9 a.m., the boy’s father recognized Rabiu in Barkin-Sale and quickly alerted the police, leading to his arrest.

During questioning, Rabiu admitted to the kidnapping and revealed the names of his alleged accomplices — Mahmuda, Aminu, Ibrahim, Yellow, Muazu, and Lago.

He also confessed to killing a farmer in the same area in 2023 and said their gang often took victims to Washa Forest near Beji.