DSS rescues kidnapped 5-year-old boy in Kano, arrests suspect

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) Kano Command have rescued a kidnapped five-year-old boy, Muhammad Haruna, following a targeted operation at Danzaki Village in Minjibir Local Government Area of Kano State.

The security sources said the abductors demanded a ransom of N15 million from the victim’s family, Nigerian Tribune reported. 

According to an operational report, the rescue took place at about 7:40 p.m. on February 12, 2026, after authorities received a formal complaint that the child had been abducted by suspected kidnappers and taken to an unknown destination.

The DSS tactical team tracked the case and carried out a coordinated operation that led to the safe recovery of the minor.

During the operation, a 20-year-old suspect, identified as Aminu Mukhtar, was arrested while allegedly negotiating ransom payment with the victim’s father via a mobile phone line.

During preliminary questioning, the suspect reportedly admitted to abducting the child with the intention of collecting ransom.

Officials confirmed that the suspect is in custody while further investigations continue.

The rescued child has also been placed under protective care as authorities proceed with necessary procedures related to the case.