The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a woman alleged to have abducted a five-year-old boy, Mohammed Naziru, in the Iwaya area of Lagos.
The incident occurred last Friday when the boy and his eight-year-old sister were returning from the mosque.
The woman, who reportedly disguised herself with a hijab to blend in with worshippers, allegedly gave the older child ₦500 to buy yogurt while she held on to Naziru.
Upon returning, the girl discovered that both her brother and the woman had disappeared.
A frantic search by the community yielded no results until Monday, January 13, when the suspect resurfaced.
The boy’s sister identified the woman, prompting her to flee.
However, she was caught by a mob and saved from lynching by the prompt arrival of policemen from the Sabo Police Division.
Speaking to reporters, Naziru’s father, Alhaji Idris Adamu, shared his frustration and concern over his son’s whereabouts.
“All I want is my son. She should tell us where she kept him so that we can go get him before any harm befalls him,” Adamu pleaded.
He also disclosed that papers found in the suspect’s possession contained instructions on where to keep the boy and what injection to administer to put him to sleep.
The suspect, who reportedly changed her appearance by loosening her braids after her arrest, has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
Detectives have indicated plans to subject her to a psychiatric evaluation to determine her mental state.
Meanwhile, police are continuing their efforts to locate the missing boy and bring those involved to justice.
This tragic incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and careful supervision of children.
As Alhaji Adamu expressed, “We must all be observant and work together to ensure our children are safe.”
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to authorities promptly.
The safety and well-being of Mohammed Naziru remain a priority as the investigation unfolds.