Police Rescue One-Day-Old Stolen Baby, Arrest 11 Suspects in Benue
By Armstrong Tseaa, Makurdi
The Benue State Police Command has rescued a one-day-old baby reportedly stolen shortly after delivery at a healthcare facility in Gboko, with 11 suspects arrested in connection with the incident.
According to a statement issued on Thursday, August 13, 2026, by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, the incident occurred on August 12.
The Command said its operatives attached to ‘A’ Division, Gboko, received a complaint at about 11:00 a.m. from one Aondofa Chia, who reported that his newborn baby had gone missing shortly after his wife delivered the child at a healthcare facility in the town.
Following the report, police operatives immediately commenced investigation, leading to the arrest of nine suspects for questioning and to assist in unraveling the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the baby.
The investigation was subsequently expanded, resulting in the arrest of two additional suspects at about 10:00 p.m. on the same day.
Among those arrested was the principal suspect, identified as 35-year-old Mrs. Nguhemen Asugh, who police alleged stole the newborn.
The baby was reportedly recovered from Asugh’s custody and safely reunited with the mother.
The Police Command said all 11 suspects are currently in custody as investigation continues to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including the roles allegedly played by each suspect and their respective levels of culpability.
The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus C. N. Nwadiogbu, commended the operatives for what he described as their swift response and professional handling of the case.
He reassured residents of the state that the Command remained committed to protecting lives and property, promising decisive action against criminal activities and other threats to public safety.
The Command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities or provide credible information to the nearest police station.
