On 8 November 2026, the Kaduna State Police announced that they had rescued six‑year‑old Samaila Haruna, who had been kidnapped from his home in Kunkumi, a community in Makarfi Local Government Area. The operation resulted in the arrest of two alleged abductors and the recovery of the child, who was found unharmed and returned to his father, Haruna Bala, 30.
What were the ransom demands?
The kidnappers initially asked for N300,000 but, after negotiations with the father, agreed to accept a reduced sum of N30,000. The police recovered a mobile phone that had been used to convey the ransom demand, which is now being held as evidence.
Who disclosed the details?
The information was provided by DSP Mansir Hassan, a spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force, in a statement released on Monday, 9 November 2026. He confirmed that the father reported the abduction at approximately 6 am on 8 November, stating that his son was taken while he was away from the house.
Which suspects were apprehended?
Police identified the two arrested individuals as Usman Ahmed, 22, residing on Yarkasuwa Zoo Road in Kano State, and Abdullahi Yakubu, 25, a resident of Kunkumi, Makarfi LGA. A third suspect, known only as Jamesy from Kabuga, Kano State, remains at large, and authorities continue to pursue his capture.
How was the boy located?
Intelligence‑led operations enabled officers to trace the kidnappers to a shop in Kunkumi where the child was being held. The operation was carried out without incident, and the rescued boy was promptly reunited with his family.
The police investigation remains ongoing, with efforts focused on locating the remaining suspect and gathering further evidence related to the kidnapping.
Background: Kidnapping for ransom has been a persistent security challenge in several northern states of Nigeria, prompting heightened police vigilance and community awareness campaigns. The swift response in this case underscores the continued commitment of law‑enforcement agencies to protect vulnerable citizens, especially children.
Quote: "Our teams acted on reliable intelligence, secured the victim, and arrested two of the perpetrators," DSP Mansir Hassan said. "We will continue to pursue the remaining suspect and ensure that justice is served."