Abia attempted baby theft case sees two suspects arrested after police say a mother and her two-week-old baby were attacked in Umuahia

The Abia State Police Command has arrested two men over an alleged conspiracy, attempted child theft and possession of suspected hard drugs following an incident involving a two-week-old baby in Umuahia.

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The suspects, identified by police as Nzubechi Chinagorom, 24, and Chinonso Chibundu, 25, both residents of Olokoro in Umuahia South Local Government Area, were apprehended after allegedly attempting to abduct an infant from her mother’s residence.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, said the incident occurred on May 25.

According to the police, Chinagorom visited the residence of 32-year-old Amarachi Chinyereugo and allegedly attempted to forcefully take away her two-week-old baby girl.

The command said the attempt led to a struggle between the suspect and the child’s mother. During the confrontation, Chinagorom allegedly assaulted the woman and stabbed her with a kitchen knife.

Police said the infant fell during the struggle and hit her head on the ground.

Authorities further alleged that Chibundu remained outside the house during the incident and acted as a lookout while the alleged crime was being carried out.

Following a distress call from the victim, both suspects fled the scene. However, police operatives tracked and arrested them at a nearby bus stop shortly afterwards.

The statement added that the suspects were allegedly found consuming substances believed to be hard drugs at the time of their arrest.

The mother and child were immediately taken to hospital for treatment. Police said both victims have recovered from their injuries.

Investigators also recovered exhibits linked to the case, while the State Criminal Investigation Department concluded its inquiry.

The police said the suspects are scheduled to be arraigned in court on June 2.

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Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Abia State Police Command urged residents to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by promptly reporting suspicious activities and security concerns to the nearest police station.