Northern Region: Three arrested over kidnapping of man near Yendi

The Northern Regional Police Command has arrested three men suspected of involvement in the abduction of Ayuba Sumiya Mawudu at Dobini Bunban, near Yendi.

The suspects are Mahmud Abdulai, 32, Ganiu Sumaila, 32, and Abdulai Salam, 28.

According to the police, they were picked up at different locations in Sang in the Moon District.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the victim was abducted on September 25, 2026. Four armed men reportedly attacked him and his brother at their residence before taking him away.

The kidnappers are said to have demanded GH¢100,000 from the victim’s family in exchange for his release. However, the ransom was never paid, as Mr Mawudu managed to escape.

In his account to the police, he said he was taken to an undisclosed location and kept under guard by armed men. He later found an opportunity to flee and was helped to safety by some farmers in Sambu.

After the arrests, the victim was shown photographs of the suspects and identified all three. Police say further investigations also link the men to other robbery incidents in the area. This development could point to a wider pattern of criminal activity in the Yendi corridor.

The three suspects remain in police custody, where they are assisting with investigations. Police have also said the search is not over, as efforts continue to arrest the remaining accomplices connected to the incident.

Since four armed men were reportedly involved in the attack, at least one suspect is still at large.

The case adds to concerns about the security of residents in rural communities in the Northern Region, where armed attacks on homes and demands for ransom can leave families terrified.

The role played by the farmers in Sambu, who came to the victim’s aid after his escape, also stands out as an example of community support in a moment of danger.

Members of the public with information that could help police track down the remaining suspects are encouraged to report to the nearest police station.

Further updates are expected as investigations continue.