The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested Khadija Ibrahim, female, aged 19, of Rikoto, Zuru LGA, in connection with the alleged theft of a newborn baby in Zuru.
SP Bashir Usman, spokesman of the Command, said in a statement that the incident occurred on 23rd July 2025, when the suspect, while pretending to assist Fatima Muhammad, who had just given birth, allegedly offered to fetch hot water but instead fled with the newborn.
He said preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect had allegedly been under social and emotional pressure over not yet having a child, as some of her peers had already given birth.
She consequently allegedly deceived her husband for about nine months into believing that she was pregnant and, after the birth of Fatima Muhammad’s baby, allegedly took the child and presented it to her husband as their own.
Usman explained that the suspect was arrested on 14th August 2026 following sustained investigation. The baby was found and safely reunited with the biological mother.
The suspect remains in police custody and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation and in accordance with applicable law.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Umar M. Hadejia, psc, MNIM, commends the operatives for their diligence and professionalism in securing the safe return of the baby and arresting the suspect. He reassures the public that the Command remains committed to protecting children and bringing anyone found culpable to justice.
