BIRNIN KEBBI — The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested a 19-year-old woman, Khadija Ibrahim, over the alleged theft of a newborn baby in Zuru Local Government Area of the state.
Police said Ibrahim, a resident of Rikoto, allegedly took the baby from its biological mother shortly after she gave birth and later presented the child to her husband as her own.
According to the police, the incident occurred on July 23, 2025, when the suspect allegedly visited Fatima Muhammad after she had delivered her baby and offered to help her fetch hot water.
The police said Ibrahim allegedly used the opportunity to leave with the newborn instead of returning with the water.
Baby recovered, reunited with mother
Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect had allegedly been under emotional and social pressure over her inability to have a child, while some of her peers had already become mothers.
Police further alleged that she had deceived her husband for about nine months into believing that she was pregnant.
Following the birth of Muhammad’s child, she allegedly took the newborn and presented the baby to her husband as their own.
The suspect was arrested on August 14, 2026, after sustained police investigations.
The stolen newborn was subsequently recovered and safely reunited with the biological mother, according to the police.
The command said Ibrahim remains in custody and would be charged to court after investigations are concluded and in accordance with applicable law.
Police assure residents of child protection
The Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, CP Umar M. Hadejia, commended the police operatives involved in the investigation and recovery of the baby.
Hadejia praised their diligence and professionalism in securing the safe return of the child and arresting the suspect.
He also assured residents that the command would continue to protect children and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
The police investigation remains ongoing, and the allegations against the suspect have not been determined by a court.
