Security forces have launched a full-scale manhunt for a trusted family guard accused of kidnapping a two-year-old boy and extorting a staggering N5 million ransom from the child’s desperate parents in Taraba State.
The abduction happened late Sunday, shattering the quiet life of the Okosun family in their Taraba home. Mrs. Ujuwan Okosun, the boy’s distraught mother, reported the incident to authorities, alleging that her longtime guard, Amos Kini, vanished with her son, Ivan Okosun, and her mobile phone. Hours later, the same device rang with a demand: Kini, using the stolen phone, called Mrs. Okosun’s husband, insisting on N5 million for the toddler’s safe return.
“I trusted him with my child’s life,” Mrs. Okosun tearfully recounted to investigators, her voice breaking as she described the moment she realized her son was gone.
The officers have detained Aruna Dauda, identified as Kin’s guarantor, for questioning.
Sources within the Taraba State Police Command revealed that a specialized team has been mobilized, combing urban hideouts and rural trails in a race against time.
“The command has intensified efforts to track down the suspect and rescue the child unhurt. Investigation is ongoing,” the sources confirmed.
The police urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with timely information to curb criminality.