Operatives of the Kebbi State Police Command have arrested a 19-year-old woman, Khadija Ibrahim, for allegedly faking a pregnancy for nine months and stealing a newborn baby to present as her own.
The incident occurred on 23rd July 2026 in Zuru.
According to police, the suspect allegedly offered to assist Fatima Muhammad, who had just given birth, by fetching hot water, but fled with the newborn instead.
In a statement released on Sunday, 16th August 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, said preliminary investigation showed that Khadija Ibrahim, of Rikoto, Zuru LGA, had been under social and emotional pressure over not having a child while her peers had already given birth.
Police said the suspect allegedly deceived her husband for about nine months into believing she was pregnant. After Fatima Muhammad gave birth, she allegedly took the baby and presented the child to her husband as their own.
Following sustained investigation, the suspect was arrested on 14th August 2026. The baby was found and safely reunited with the biological mother.
The suspect remains in police custody and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation, in accordance with the law.
The Commissioner of Police, Kebbi State Command, CP Umar M. Hadejia, psc, MNIM, commended the operatives for their diligence and professionalism in securing the safe return of the baby and arresting the suspect.
He reassured the public that the Command remains committed to protecting children and ensuring anyone found culpable faces justice.
