The Yobe State Police Command has cracked down on a kidnapping syndicate, arresting the prime suspect, 43-year-old Yusuf Ali in Damaturu, the state capital.
Police said the suspect was apprehended from 250 Housing Estate, in Damaturu following a report at about 2:15 pm on October 14, 2024, by one Mallam Hassan that his son, Abdullahi Hassan was missing a day earlier at about 5:15 pm. The distraught father said despite efforts to locate his son, his whereabouts remained unknown until the abductor demanded N1.5 million for his release via a phone call.
Police Public Relations Officer, Yobe State Command, DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, in a statement made available to ThePaan in Damaturu, said detectives swiftly coordinated intelligence-led operations, tracing the victim to a secured room in Kara Area, Darazo, Bauchi State where the prime suspect was apprehended while holding the victim hostage.
Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Garba Ahmed, reiterated the Command’s commitment to combating crime and praised the efforts of the personnel in ensuring the successful rescue and arrest of the victim and the suspect.
He urged parents to safeguard their children against criminal elements after school and educate the children on basic safety protocols including teaching them to identify trusted adults and report suspicious activities. He reminded of the need for children to avoid walking alone, using the buddy system, staying in well-lit areas as well as reminding them to avoid isolated or dark areas.
The CP further urged the parents on the need to educate their children never to accept gifts or rides from strangers, warn about potential lures, as well as reporting suspicious activities or individuals and for parents to encourage open communication with their children.
