The Katsina State Police Command has uncovered a disturbing kidnapping plot involving a 14-year-old girl, who allegedly conspired with three others to abduct her 4-year-old younger sister and stage her own fake abduction in a bid to extort ransom from their family.
This was disclosed by the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Abubakar Sadiq, during a press briefing on the Command’s activities for the month of May 2025.
Father Reports Daughters Missing, N50 Million Ransom Demanded
The case came to light on February 20, 2025, when one Alhaji Badamasi Bala, a resident of Madaci Yan Nono Quarters in Katsina, lodged a complaint with the police. He reported that both of his daughters aged 14 and 4 had gone missing under suspicious circumstances. Shortly after their disappearance, the family received a ransom demand of ₦50 million from unknown persons who claimed responsibility for the kidnapping.
Four-Month Investigation Uncovers the Shocking Truth
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Shehu, ordered the immediate deployment of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit to investigate the incident.
According to ASP Sadiq, the breakthrough in the case came four months later, when the 14-year-old girl reappeared under mysterious circumstances. Upon interrogation, she confessed to the police that she had staged her own kidnapping and collaborated with three individuals to kidnap her younger sister as part of a well-planned extortion scheme.
Suspects Arrested, Victim Rescued Safely
Police investigations led to the arrest of three co-conspirators, aged 25, 19, and 16, respectively. The abducted four-year-old girl was located and rescued unharmed, bringing immense relief to the family and the community.
The suspects reportedly admitted to the crime during police interrogation. Additionally, one live round of 7.62mm ammunition was recovered from the group, raising concerns about the potential escalation of violence had the plan gone unchecked.
Police Commend Swift Response and Call for Public Vigilance
Commissioner CP Bello Shehu praised the diligence of the officers involved in cracking the case and emphasized the importance of community cooperation in combating criminal activities. He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or persons to the nearest police station for swift intervention.
“This incident underscores the evolving nature of crime in our society, and the need for families, schools, and religious institutions to intensify moral guidance for young people,” he added.
The police have assured that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
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