BAUCHI, NIGERIA – The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested a 39-year-old man, Yusuf Umar of Dagu village in Warji Local Government Area (LGA), for allegedly attempting to sell his 5-year-old daughter for N1.5 million.
Arrest and Charges
The Commissioner of Police, Auwal Musa Mohammed, disclosed the arrest during a briefing at the Police headquarters in Bauchi. According to Mohammed, “Man was apprehended while attempting to sell his biological daughter. Detectives of the Command arrested one Yusuf Umar aged 39 years of Dagu village via Warji LGA of Bauchi State. The suspect, who claimed to be a staff with Warji Local Government area council, was arrested for trafficking his 5-year-old biological child.”
Details of the Incident
The Commissioner explained that on May 26, 2024, Umar took his daughter from her mother, under the pretense of taking her to his sister in Bauchi town. Unbeknownst to the mother, Umar had arranged to sell the girl to an unknown individual, who turned out to be a Police detective. The arrest occurred at a hotel in Bauchi after Umar negotiated the sale for N1.5 million.
Mohammed added, “Additionally, the defendant to ensure his interest, sent the sum of N40,000 as transportation fare to the person who linked him up with the buyer.”
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The Commissioner has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Criminal Intelligence Department (CID) to conduct a thorough investigation to uncover further motives behind Umar’s actions. “He will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation for the established offence,” Mohammed stated.
Suspect’s Confession and Remorse
While addressing journalists, Umar confirmed his intention to sell his daughter and the negotiation process. He expressed regret, saying, “Wallahi, I did not know what came upon me to take such a decision. It was the handiwork of my enemies who turned my brain upside down. The devil really cheated me.”
Amidst tears, Umar pleaded for forgiveness from his daughter’s mother and others affected by his actions. “I love my daughter, even though we are divorced with her mother. I regret my actions and want the mother and all others to please forgive me,” he said.
When asked about his daughter’s current whereabouts, Umar stated, “The last time I saw her was last Monday when I brought her to be sold. I am praying that no harm will happen to her. I love her and want to see her again.”
