Shock in Bauchi: Police Arrest Relatives For Kidnap, Murder Of 9-Year-Old Boy

The Bauchi State Police Command has apprehended two young men over the alleged kidnapping and killing of a nine-year-old boy, Barhama Abubakar, in a case that has shocked residents of the state.

The suspects, identified as 20-year-old Yahaya Zubairu and Babangida Muhammad, were arrested following investigations into the incident, according to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Nafiu Habib.

Police disclosed that both suspects are relatives of the victim and lived within the same compound, raising further concern over the circumstances surrounding the crime.

According to the statement, the victim was abducted on March 21, 2026, after which a ransom of ₦1 million was demanded from his family.

Acting on intelligence, operatives of the command tracked and arrested the suspects, leading to the discovery of the boy’s decomposed body.

A medical examination later confirmed the victim’s death.

Preliminary findings revealed that Babangida, who is said to be a cousin of the victim, allegedly lured the child under the pretense of sending him on an errand to deliver biscuits at a nearby primary school.

The suspects were said to have abducted him from the location and taken him to where the crime was carried out.

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Police further stated that the suspects confessed to the act, admitting they targeted the boy because they believed his father was financially buoyant.

Investigators allege that the child was bound at the neck and legs, leading to his death.

The Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities within their communities.

Authorities confirmed that the case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further probe, assuring the public of their commitment to ensuring justice is served.

The command also appealed to members of the public to provide useful information that could assist in tackling similar crimes and apprehending other offenders.