The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested a 19-year-old woman in Zuru Local Government Area for allegedly stealing a newborn baby and presenting the child to her husband as her own.
According to the police, the incident occurred on July 23, 2025, when the suspect allegedly visited a woman, identified as Fatima Muhammad, shortly after she gave birth. She reportedly offered to help the new mother by fetching hot water.
The police alleged that the suspect used the opportunity to leave with the newborn instead of returning with the water.
Preliminary investigations reportedly showed that the suspect had been under social and emotional pressure over her inability to have a child, particularly as some of her peers had already become mothers.
The police further alleged that she had deceived her husband for about nine months into believing that she was pregnant. After allegedly taking the newborn, she reportedly presented the baby to him as their child.
Following sustained investigations, the suspect was arrested on August 14, 2026. The stolen baby was also recovered and safely reunited with the biological mother.
The police said the suspect remains in custody and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded and in accordance with the law.
The Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, CP Umar Hadejia, commended the officers involved for their diligence and professionalism in recovering the baby 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.
