By IN a heartbreaking, yet, ultimately, hopeful story, the Delta State Police Command has rescued a five-month-old baby boy who was abducted two months earlier after his mother was drugged during a journey from Koko to Warri.
Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, revealed during a press briefing on Thursday in Asaba that the child was stolen in February by a woman identified as Mrs Joy Temitope Oyetimi, aged 49.
The young mother, whose identity has been withheld, had embarked on a business trip on 16th February 2025 with the suspect, unaware of the danger ahead.
According to police reports, during the journey, Mrs Oyetimi offered the 20-year-old mother a drink laced with a sedative. “She slept off,” CP Abaniwonda said.
“While she was unconscious, the suspect disappeared with her two-month-old baby boy.”
The traumatic incident sparked a determined, intelligence-led investigation led by the Divisional Police Officer of Ekpan Police Station.
After weeks of trailing, officers located and arrested Mrs Oyetimi, who, during interrogation, confessed to the abduction.
The child, now five months old, was safely recovered and reunited with his parents.
“The suspect admitted she was the one who took the child,” the Commissioner stated.
“We are grateful to confirm that the baby has been rescued in good health and returned to his family.”
Describing the case as a “chilling reminder” of the dangers posed by traffickers who exploit trust, CP Abaniwonda affirmed that the Command remains resolute in protecting vulnerable members of society, particularly women and children.
He added, “The suspect is currently in custody, and a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine if there are other accomplices or victims.”
This incident has stirred emotional responses across the state, with residents expressing shock and gratitude for the swift police intervention.
“No parent should have to go through such terror,” one community leader remarked. “We commend the police for their diligence and humanity.”
The Delta State Police Command has urged citizens to remain vigilant and to report suspicious behaviour promptly.
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