Sokoto, Nigeria — The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested two suspected kidnappers in separate operations and rescued a 10-year-old boy allegedly abducted within the state.

One of the arrested suspects, identified as Abdullahi Buba, also known as "Osho," is believed to be part of a notorious kidnapping syndicate operating in Sokoto, according to the police command's spokesperson, DSP Ahmad Rufai.

Buba was apprehended on August 8 during a raid on a criminal hideout in Tudun Doki Village, Gwadabawa Local Government Area. Police stated the operation was conducted around 2 p.m. following intelligence reports.

Preliminary investigations suggest Buba was involved in kidnappings and the collection of illegal levies from communities in Gwadabawa, Kware, and Gada local government areas. The police indicated that Buba is assisting them in efforts to locate other syndicate members who are still at large.

In a separate incident, police rescued 10-year-old Muhammad Sufiyanu after he was reported missing in Gidan Madi Town, Tangaza Local Government Area. The boy's uncle, Sani Ibrahim, reported his disappearance to the Gidan Madi Police Station on August 11.

Detectives from the Gidan Madi Division intercepted two individuals on a motorcycle around 11 p.m. The suspects were reportedly carrying a concealed sack. They fled when challenged by officers, abandoning the sack.

Upon investigation, officers discovered the boy inside the sack, alive and conscious. He was taken to Gidan Madi General Hospital for medical attention and has since been discharged.

The rescued boy reportedly told investigators that one of the suspects lured him into a room, administered a sedative, and placed him in the sack. Police confirmed that one suspect has been arrested and confessed to the alleged crime. Crime scene investigators have also visited the location.

The command stated that investigations into both incidents are ongoing. Commissioner of Police Hayatu Hassan Shaffa commended the officers involved and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

Shaffa reaffirmed the command's commitment to safeguarding lives and property throughout Sokoto State.