Police arrest Kebbi woman, 19, for allegedly stealing newborn

The police have arrested a 19-year-old woman, Khadija Ibrahim, for allegedly stealing a newborn in Zuru Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The police state command spokesperson, Bashir Usman, confirmed the arrest in a statement released on Sunday.

Ibrahim, from Rikoto village, allegedly presented the baby to her husband as her own.

The incident happened on July 23, 2025, shortly after the baby’s biological mother, Fatima Muhammad, gave birth.

According to the police, Ibrahim pretended to assist the new mother by fetching hot water, but instead fled with the newborn.

Nine-month deception

The police said their preliminary investigation uncovered the alleged motive behind the child theft.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect had allegedly been under social and emotional pressure over not yet having a child,” the statement said.

“Some of her peers had already given birth,” the command said, according to Ibrahim.

“She consequently allegedly deceived her husband for about nine months into believing that she was pregnant,” Mr Usman said.

“After the birth of Fatima Muhammad’s baby, she allegedly took the child and presented it to her husband as their own,” he added.

Baby found and reunited with biological mother

The police said that Mrs Ibrahim was arrested on 14 August after a sustained investigation.

“The suspect was arrested on 14th August 2026 following a sustained investigation,” he said.

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The baby also recovered safely.

“The baby was found and safely reunited with the biological mother,” the command said.

The suspect remains in police custody and will be charged in court “in accordance with applicable law” after the completion of the investigation.

The Commissioner of Police, Umar Hadejia, commended the officers, praising their “diligence and professionalism” in securing the baby’s safe return.

He also assured the residents that the command will continue to protect children.

“We’re committed to protecting children and bringing anyone found culpable to justice,” the commissioner said.