Police Arrest 4 Over Alleged Kidnap and Murder of 6-Year-Old Boy in Bauchi
The Bauchi State Police Command has apprehended four individuals in connection with the kidnapping and subsequent murder of 6-year-old Shuaibu Safiyanu in Sade Village, Darazo Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
According to reports, the boy’s father, Safiyanu Abdullahi, a resident of Sade Village, alerted the Village Head, Musa Isah, on March 20, 2025, after his son went missing. Later that same day, Abdullahi received a ransom demand of ₦3 million from an unknown caller, which was later reduced to ₦200,000.
Tragically, the next day, March 21, Shuaibu’s body was discovered in a nearby bush with a rope tied around his neck. His remains were transported to the General Hospital, where a medical professional confirmed his death. The body was then released to the family for burial according to Islamic rites.
Confirming the incident, the police spokesperson, CSP Ahmed Wakil, revealed that detectives from Darazo Divisional Police Headquarters launched a swift investigation, which led to a breakthrough at a nearby POS terminal.
On March 21, police operatives arrested 23-year-old Rabi’u Muhammadu from Leka Village, who was found in possession of the phone number and bank account details (0145285130, Ozochikelu Samson, Union Bank PLC) used for the ransom demands.
During interrogation, Muhammadu identified 35-year-old Samson Ozochikel from Sade Village as the mastermind behind the kidnapping. He also implicated two others: 25-year-old Muhammad Sani, alias Jingi, and 30-year-old Musa Usman, known as Kala, both from Leka Village in Darazo.
The police confirmed that all four suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue. The case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further examination.
The Bauchi State Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to delivering justice in the tragic case. It also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via the Police Emergency Number: 112 and Police Control Room: 08156814656.
“The Bauchi State Police Command remains dedicated to protecting lives and properties while ensuring justice is served,” the statement concluded.
