Taraba Police have arrested a suspect in the abduction of a 100-year-old man in Sabon Pegi, Ibi LGA, following an extensive investigation
The Taraba State Police Command has successfully apprehended a suspected kidnapper linked to the shocking abduction of a 100-year-old man in Sabon Pegi, Ibi Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP James Lashen Saminu, confirmed the arrest in a detailed statement issued on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.
According to the police, the incident occurred on the morning of August 6, 2025, at approximately 9:30 a.m., when three unidentified armed men allegedly stormed the residence of centenarian Joshua Magani Ubandoma.
The intruders reportedly overpowered those present in the home and abducted the elderly man at gunpoint, sending shockwaves through the quiet community.
The case was first reported to the Ibi Police Division by Hillary Habila Ubandoma, who described the harrowing attack and provided information about the suspects.
“On 06/08/2025 at about 0930hrs, a report was received at Ibi division by one Hillary Habila Ubandoma that three unidentified armed hoodlums invaded the house of one Joshua Magani Ubandoma, 100 years old, of Sabon Pegi, and took him away,” ASP Saminu’s statement read.
Following the report, officers from Ibi Division, in collaboration with local community youths, quickly mobilized to investigate the abduction.
The police visited the scene, carefully examined the area for clues, and traced the kidnappers’ motorcycle tire marks into the surrounding bush.
An extensive and coordinated search of the nearby forest ensued, highlighting the determination and resourcefulness of the operatives.
After nearly a month of intensive investigation and tireless efforts, the police successfully apprehended a 37-year-old suspect, Kingsley Alose of Sabon Pegi, on September 2, 2025.
Alose is currently in custody as the investigation into the abduction continues. Authorities confirmed that the case remains active and that efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend any additional suspects involved in the crime.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, psc, mnips, commended the operatives of Ibi Division for their swift response and dedication to the case.
She reassured residents of Taraba State that the Police Command remains steadfast in its mission to combat crime and ensure the safety and security of the citizenry.
CP Otimenyin emphasized, “The Taraba State Police Command is fully committed to protecting lives and property, preventing crime, and creating a safe and secure environment for all residents.
“We will continue to deploy all available resources and work in close collaboration with community members to uphold law and order.”
The successful apprehension of the suspected kidnapper has been widely praised in Sabon Pegi, where residents expressed relief that law enforcement acted swiftly to address the security threat.
The command’s proactive approach demonstrates the growing collaboration between the police and local communities in tackling violent crime and ensuring public safety across Taraba State.