Stolen baby recovered after one year as woman lands in police net

The Nigeria Police Force, Sokoto State Command said its has arrested a woman who abducted a two-day-old baby.

According to a statement by the Command’s spokesman, DSP Ahmad Rufai, the arrest followed an extensive investigation that lasted a year.

The statement added that the police successfully ensured the safe return of the child to his biological parents.

The suspect, Hamida Mustapha, is a resident of the Hwakon Edi in Tambuwal Local Government Area.

The woman allegedly visited the home of Sani M, the baby’s father, under the pretense of being a friend of his sister.

“She met the mother of the newborn, presented baby clothes as gifts, and later requested to take the infant outside to show him to her boyfriend. However, instead of returning, she disappeared with the child.

“For nearly a year, the whereabouts of the stolen baby remained unknown. However, a significant breakthrough in the case emerged on March 12, 2025, when Hamida had a domestic dispute with her husband.

“Rumors began circulating within the community that the baby in her custody was not her husband’s child. Suspicions grew, prompting the alleged father to report the matter to the police.

“Upon interrogation, Hamida confessed to the crime, admitting that she had abducted the baby and deceived her grandmother into believing she had given birth. Her grandmother, who was aware of Hamida’s pregnancy, confirmed that she had never seen her give birth but only saw her return home with a baby,” the statement said.

According to the statement, further investigations revealed that Hamida had also misled her husband and extended family, maintaining the deception for a year.

“Following the investigation, the Sokoto State Police Command safely reunited the child with his biological parents. The suspect, Hamida Mustapha, has been charged in court and will face legal proceedings.”

Speaking on the case, Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Musa, reassured the public of the Command’s dedication to tackling crime in Sokoto State.

He urged parents to be cautious about individuals who interact with their children and encouraged the public to report suspicious activities to law enforcement.

The Sokoto State Police Command also expressed appreciation for the continued support and cooperation of residents in maintaining peace and security across the state.