One suspect was arrested over the death of a 25-year-old man, while three others were detained after a 51-year-old man was allegedly attacked over witchcraft claims

The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested four suspects in connection with two separate alleged homicide cases that claimed the lives of two men in different parts of the state, including a 51-year-old man who was reportedly attacked over allegations of witchcraft.

Also read: Bauchi Swears in New Sharia Judges to Strengthen Grassroots Justice

The command’s spokesperson, SP Nafiu Habib, disclosed the arrests in a statement issued on Wednesday, saying one suspect was detained over the alleged stabbing of 25-year-old Zahradeen Dan’Azumi Tanko, while three others were arrested following the death of 51-year-old Monday Chiroma.

The first incident occurred on July 25 at about 3:28 p.m. in Unguwan Kur, where police said Tanko was allegedly stabbed during an attack involving 21-year-old Al-Amin Hamisu Gidado and another suspect, Yahaya Mu’azu, who remains at large.

According to Habib, Tanko sustained multiple injuries and was rushed to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital in Bauchi for medical attention.

“Unfortunately, the medical doctor on duty confirmed him dead on arrival,” the police spokesman said.

Habib said Gidado had been arrested and was in police custody, while efforts were continuing to locate Mu’azu, who allegedly fled after the incident.

He added that the preliminary investigation had been completed and the case transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The second case involved Chiroma, whose lifeless body was reportedly brought to the police on July 21 by residents of the Dandango area.

Police said preliminary investigations indicated that Chiroma and another man, identified as Yelwa Bango, were allegedly attacked on July 20 over accusations that they had used witchcraft against a 20-year-old woman, Jamila Anthony, who later died while receiving treatment at a hospital in Gudun Hausawa, Bauchi.

“The attack was reportedly carried out on the suspicion that the victims were responsible for bewitching one Jamila Anthony, a 20-year-old female who later died while receiving treatment at a hospital in Gudun Hausawa, Bauchi,” Habib said.

The two men were subsequently taken to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, where Chiroma was confirmed dead. Bango, however, was admitted for treatment.

Following a swift response by operatives of the E-Division, police arrested three suspects identified as 25-year-old Danjuma Anthony, 22-year-old Ayuba Anthony, also known as Babaru, and 34-year-old Christopher Adamu.

Habib said the suspects allegedly confessed during interrogation, although the investigation remains ongoing and any eventual prosecution will be subject to the outcome of the police inquiry and judicial proceedings.

The police spokesman said investigators were working with local security operatives and members of the community to apprehend other suspects who remain at large.

The case has also been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation and prosecution.

The two incidents have renewed concerns about the dangers of violent self-help and the consequences of acting on unverified accusations, particularly allegations of witchcraft that can result in fatal attacks.

The Commissioner of Police in Bauchi State, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, condemned both incidents and urged residents to reject violence and jungle justice.

Through Habib, the police commissioner appealed to residents to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station rather than taking the law into their own hands.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, pursuing those responsible for violent crimes and ensuring that victims and their families receive justice through the lawful process.

Also read: Bauchi Police Make Major Breakthrough, Arrest Drug Suspect

As investigations continue, the Bauchi Police Command is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding both deaths and establish the full extent of responsibility in each case.