Sokoto police officers rescued a 10-year-old boy allegedly found concealed inside a sack in Tangaza, Sokoto State, on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. The boy, identified as Muhammad Sufiyanu, was taken to Gidan Madi General Hospital for treatment and later discharged.
Suspects Nabbed, Boy Rescued in Late-Night Operation
Surveillance detectives from the Gidan Madi Police Division began searching the area after Muhammad Sufiyanu's uncle, Sani Ibrahim, reported him missing at the Gidan Madi Police Station at about 8 pm on August 11. Ibrahim had reported the boy missing earlier that afternoon, prompting the police to launch an investigation. At about 11 pm, the detectives, accompanied by Ibrahim, intercepted two people traveling on a motorcycle with a concealed sack.
The suspects allegedly fled when the detectives challenged them, prompting a pursuit. The officers later found that the suspects had abandoned the sack. When police searched it, they discovered Sufiyanu inside, alive and responsive. He was immediately taken to Gidan Madi General Hospital for medical treatment.
Suspect Arrested, Investigation Continues
One suspect has been arrested in connection with the alleged abduction and reportedly confessed to the crime, according to the police. The suspect's name was not provided. Crime Scene Investigators have also visited the location as investigations continue.
Separate Arrest Made in Kidnapping Syndicate
In a separate operation, the police arrested Abdullahi Buba, also known as "Osho," a suspected member of a kidnapping syndicate involved in kidnappings and the illegal imposition of levies on communities in Gwadabawa, Kware, and Gada local government areas. Buba was arrested by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit during an intelligence-led raid on a suspected criminal hideout in Tudun Doki Village, Gwadabawa Local Government Area, at about 2 pm on August 8.
The command said Buba was providing information that could help investigators locate other members of the alleged syndicate who remain at large. Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State Command, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, commended the officers involved and urged residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.
Investigation Ongoing
The police said investigations into both cases are ongoing. The allegations have therefore not been tested in court.
Source: Pulse.ng
