The Niger State Police Command has successfully rescued a six-month-old baby who was abducted by her cousin for sale in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The incident, which occurred in the Kwamba area of Suleja, has led to the arrest of four suspects, including the baby’s cousin, Joy Nuwa.
The abduction took place last Saturday when the baby’s mother left her in the care of her cousin, Joy Nuwa, while she went out to run an errand. Upon her return, the mother discovered that both the baby and Joy were missing. A report was immediately filed with the Niger State Police, leading to a swift investigation and the eventual rescue of the baby.
Details of the Abduction and Rescue
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, the suspects conspired to abduct the baby and transport her to Kubwa, Abuja, where they planned to sell her. The suspects arrested in connection with the crime include:
- Joy Nuwa (20), from Nasarawa State
- Favour James (25), from Kwamba
- Ezekiel Emmanuel (30), from Kwamba
- Patience Obana (23), from Kubwa, Abuja
Abiodun explained that the investigation revealed no signs of forced entry into the room where the baby was kept, prompting the police to interrogate neighbors. This led to the arrest of Ezekiel Emmanuel and Favour James, who confessed to conspiring with Joy Nuwa to abduct the baby.
“Emmanuel confessed that they conspired with Joy and took the baby to one Patience Obana of Kubwa, FCT Abuja, to facilitate the sale of the baby. The said Joy, Favour, and Patience were later arrested through Emmanuel, and the baby was rescued unhurt,” Abiodun stated.
Swift Police Action Saves the Day
The Niger State Police Command acted swiftly upon receiving the report of the missing baby. Their diligent investigation and collaboration with local residents led to the arrest of the suspects and the safe recovery of the baby. The rescued child has since been reunited with her mother, who expressed immense gratitude to the police for their efforts.
All four suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna for further investigation and prosecution. The police have assured the public that they will ensure the suspects face the full wrath of the law.
A Growing Concern: Child Trafficking in Nigeria
This incident highlights the growing concern of child trafficking and abduction in Nigeria. Criminal syndicates often target vulnerable families, using deceit and coercion to abduct children for sale or other illicit purposes. The case of the six-month-old baby is a stark reminder of the need for increased vigilance and stronger measures to combat child trafficking.
Child rights advocates have called for stricter enforcement of laws against child trafficking and better support systems for victims and their families. According to a representative of a child protection organization, “This case is a wake-up call for all stakeholders to work together to protect our children. We need stronger laws, better enforcement, and more awareness to prevent such incidents from happening.”
Community Reactions
The rescue of the baby has brought relief to the Kwamba community, where the incident occurred. Residents have praised the police for their swift action and urged authorities to ensure that the suspects are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
A community leader in Suleja, who spoke to FRONTPAGE, said, “We are grateful to the police for rescuing the baby and arresting the suspects. This is a serious crime, and we hope the perpetrators will be punished severely to serve as a deterrent to others.”
Police Assurance and Call for Vigilance
The Niger State Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to combating crime and protecting lives and property. Abiodun urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all residents. We urge members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police immediately,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation continues, the case has drawn attention to the need for stronger measures to prevent child trafficking and abduction. Stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, government bodies, and civil society organizations, must collaborate to address the root causes of this menace and protect vulnerable children.
The successful rescue of the six-month-old baby is a testament to the effectiveness of prompt police action and community cooperation. It serves as a reminder that collective efforts are essential in the fight against crime and the protection of innocent lives.
Conclusion
The Niger State Police Command’s swift response and diligent investigation have led to the rescue of a six-month-old baby abducted for sale in Abuja. The arrest of four suspects, including the baby’s cousin, underscores the seriousness of child trafficking and the need for continued vigilance and stronger enforcement measures.
As the suspects face prosecution, the case highlights the importance of community cooperation and the role of law enforcement in safeguarding vulnerable members of society. The safe return of the baby to her mother is a heartwarming outcome, but it also serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to work together to prevent such incidents in the future.
Our thoughts are with the baby and her family as they recover from this traumatic experience. May this case serve as a catalyst for stronger measures to protect children and combat child trafficking in Nigeria.
