Gombe police arrest a man for allegedly killing a kidnapped nephew

Mubarak Haladu, 21, has been arrested by the Nigerian police in Gombe State for kidnapping, culpable homicide, shoplifting and theft.

The suspect allegedly kidnapped his seven-year-old nephew, Haruna Bello, and demanded a ransom of N1.5 million from the boy’s father, Bello Haladu.

The Gombe State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Buhari Abdullahi, confirmed the arrest on Friday.

He stated that Mubarak demanded the ransom via a phone call, leaving his brother devastated.

Unfortunately, after a search, the police discovered the boy’s body in an abandoned building.

“I received a call from Mubarak demanding $1.5 million in exchange for my son’s freedom. I was devastated,” Bello Haladu said in a police statement.

The case was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department’s anti-kidnapping unit, which uncovered Mubarak’s involvement in other crimes, including breaking into stores and stealing about 30 cellphones.

Police discovered that one of the stolen SIM cards was used to make the ransom call.

Abdullahi added: “Tragically, on October 18, 2024, the young victim, Haruna Bello, was found dead and decomposing in an unfinished building in Dadin Kowa village.

“We condemn this heinous act and assure the public that justice will be served.”

Police confirmed that Mubarak Haladu will soon be prosecuted for his crimes.