Police Arrest Pregnant Cook in Abuja Kidnapping Case

On June 11, 2026, the FCT Police Command arrested five suspects linked to a kidnapping network operating on the outskirts of Abuja. Among those arrested was Hauwa Shafiu, a heavily pregnant cook who served as a logistics supplier for the criminal gang.

The operation, led by Ahm Sanusi, resulted in the rescue of a victim and the neutralization of other suspects. Following her arrest, Shafiu was taken to a hospital where she subsequently gave birth to a healthy baby.

The investigation revealed that the suspects were part of a criminal network involved in kidnappings around the FCT, strategically embedding themselves within local communities. Items recovered from the suspects included four motorcycles, 31 pieces of 500mg tramadol tablets, 10 pieces of 50mg tramadol tablets, five phones, cooking utensils, and N320,000 in cash, which was part of a ransom payment.

The police announced plans to demolish identified hideouts used by the suspects in collaboration with the FCT administration.