Police in Edo State have arrested two suspected kidnappers after they were identified by a medical doctor at the very hospital where he works in Auchi.
On February 8, 2026, operatives arrested Idris Abubakar and Sani Abubakar at a specialist hospital in Auchi after Dr. Babatunde recognized them as part of the gang involved in the January 2 kidnapping of him and his brother. The incident tragically ended with the murder of his younger brother, Abu Tahir, despite a ransom payment of ₦50 million following an initial demand of ₦100 million.
A third suspect, identified as Saminu Kawujie, had earlier been arrested in Warake Forest in connection with the crime.
According to reports, the suspects had taken a sick child to the hospital for treatment, unaware that the attending doctor was the same victim they had kidnapped weeks earlier. Eyewitnesses recorded videos showing the suspects visibly nervous inside the hospital room after being identified.
The Edo State Police Command commended the intelligence-led operation, describing the arrests as a significant step toward dismantling local kidnapping networks operating in the area.
The case has drawn widespread attention online, with many describing the development as a striking turn of events. Meanwhile, members of the public have continued to express gratitude to those who prayed and contributed toward the safe release of Dr. Babatunde during his ordeal.
