LAFIA, Nigeria (FN) — Police in Nigeria’s Nasarawa State have arrested three individuals in connection with the abduction of a 2-year-old boy, officials said Friday, adding that the child has been rescued and reunited with his family.
The suspects were apprehended in Lafia following a manhunt launched after the toddler was taken from the Sabon Pegi area on Oct. 14. The abductors had reportedly demanded a ransom of 15 million Naira (about 10,000 dollars).
Authorities said the child was found unharmed two days later in Angwan Nungu, a community within Lafia, where he had been held. Initial investigations revealed that one of the suspects, a woman, allegedly conspired with her husband to carry out the kidnapping. The child was later handed over to a third suspect, who reportedly contacted the family for ransom.
The suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue.
In a separate incident, police arrested a suspected armed robber and kidnapper in the Azara area of Awe Local Government Area after a group of gunmen attacked travelers along the Akiri feeder road. One suspect was detained while attempting to flee the scene. An AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and live ammunition were recovered during the operation.
Police officials said a total of 24 suspected kidnappers and one suspected armed robber were arrested in the state between Aug. 30 and mid-October. Three firearms and eight rounds of ammunition were also recovered during that period.
Authorities called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement by providing information to help track criminal activities. They also reaffirmed their commitment to tackling insecurity through intelligence gathering and increased patrol efforts.
Kidnapping remains a persistent threat in central Nigeria, often fueled by ransom payments, weak border controls, and limited law enforcement resources. Victims are frequently seized near roads or rural communities, complicating rescue operations and placing pressure on local security networks.
