The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested two 20-year-old men, Yahaya Zubairu and Babangida Muhammad, in connection with the kidnapping and killing of a nine-year-old boy, Barhama Abubakar.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, the suspects—who are relatives of the victim and reportedly lived in the same compound—allegedly conspired to abduct the child on March 21, 2026.
Habib explained that the suspects later demanded a ransom of ₦1 million from the victim’s family after the abduction.
“The victim was kidnapped on March 21, 2026, and a ransom demand of ₦1,000,000 was made,” the police spokesperson said.
He further revealed that operatives swiftly launched an investigation which led to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of the victim’s body.
“The victim’s decomposed body was recovered, and a medical examination confirmed death,” Habib stated.
Police authorities alleged that Babangida Muhammad, a cousin of the deceased, lured the child by sending him on an errand to buy biscuits and deliver them to a designated location, where he was subsequently abducted alongside the other suspect.
“The suspects confessed to the crime, stating that they targeted the victim’s father because they believed he had money,” Habib added.
The command said the suspects tied the boy’s neck and legs during the incident, which ultimately led to his death.
Reacting to the case, the Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements within their communities.
“The Commissioner of Police urges parents and guardians to be vigilant and report suspicious activities,” the statement noted.
Habib confirmed that the case would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and prosecution, adding that efforts were ongoing to apprehend any additional suspects linked to the crime.
“The investigation is ongoing, and the case will be transferred to the SCID,” he said.
The police command also reassured the public of its commitment to ensuring justice and strengthening security across the state.
