The Yobe State Police Command has successfully dismantled a kidnapping syndicate with the arrest of the primary suspect, 43-year-old Yusuf Ali, in Damaturu, the state capital.
According to police reports, the suspect was taken into custody at 250 Housing Estate after a distress call was received at approximately 2:15 PM on October 14, 2024. The caller, Mallam Hassan, reported that his son, Abdullahi Hassan, had gone missing the previous day around 5:15 PM.
The heartbroken father expressed that, despite his best efforts to locate his son, he had no leads until the abductor contacted him demanding a ransom of N1.5 million for his son’s release.
Yobe State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, released a statement detailing how detectives conducted a series of intelligence-driven operations. This led to the tracing of the victim to a secure location in Kara Area, Darazo, Bauchi State, where they apprehended the suspect while he was holding the victim captive.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Garba Ahmed, emphasized the Command’s dedication to fighting crime and commended the police personnel for their effective efforts in rescuing the victim and apprehending the suspect.
He called on parents to take proactive measures to protect their children from criminal elements, particularly after school. “Parents should educate their children on basic safety protocols, including recognizing trusted adults and reporting any suspicious activities,” he stated.
CP Ahmed reminded parents of the importance of teaching their children to avoid walking alone, suggesting they use the buddy system and stay in well-lit areas. He also stressed the necessity of avoiding isolated or dimly lit locations.
Additionally, he urged parents to instruct their children never to accept gifts or rides from strangers and to be aware of potential lures. He emphasized the importance of reporting any suspicious individuals or activities and fostering open communication between parents and their children.
