Baby stolen at birth in Benue; Police nab 11 suspects

The Benue State Police Command has successfully rescued a newborn baby who was allegedly stolen shortly after delivery at a healthcare facility in Gboko. The operation led to the arrest of 11 suspects connected to the incident, bringing a swift resolution to the child's disappearance.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondongu, stated that the Command received a report on August 12, 2026, from Aondofa Chia, whose wife had recently given birth. The report indicated that the newborn had gone missing from the healthcare facility. Following the report, police operatives launched an immediate investigation.

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On 12 August 2026, at about 11a.m., operatives of the Command attached to A Division, Gboko, received a complaint from one Aondofa Chia, whose wife delivered a baby shortly at a healthcare facility in Gboko, that the newborn baby had gone missing.

Their efforts led to the arrest of nine suspects who were taken in for questioning. Further investigation later that day resulted in the apprehension of two additional suspects, bringing the total number of individuals in custody to 11. The alleged principal suspect, identified as 35-year-old Asugh, was found to be in possession of the stolen newborn.

The rescued baby was safely reunited with her mother. The police stated that the investigation is ongoing to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the baby's disappearance and to ascertain the specific roles and culpability of each of the 11 suspects. The Commissioner of Police commended the operatives for their swift and professional response, assuring residents of the state's commitment to protecting lives and property.

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The stolen newborn baby was subsequently rescued from her custody and safely reunited with the mother.