One Arrested, Manhunt Launched Following Fatal Attack Over Witchcraft Allegations in Bauchi

Police in Bauchi State have arrested one suspect and launched a manhunt for two others following the murder of a 30-year-old woman, Habse Ubale, who was killed after being accused of witchcraft in Garin Malam Village, Gamawa Local Government Area.

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Nafiu Habib, three suspects unlawfully entered a residential compound in the early hours of July 28 and attacked the family on allegations that Ubale practiced witchcraft. During the invasion, the victim was fatally attacked with a machete, while two young relatives, aged 12 and 14, suffered serious injuries from physical assaults with sticks.

Security personnel, working alongside local vigilantes and hunters, responded to the scene and transported the victims to the General Hospital in Gamawa. Ubale was pronounced dead by medical personnel, while the injured minors received treatment.

Police operatives have taken one primary suspect into custody, while active efforts are underway to locate the remaining accomplices. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Bauchi for further investigation and prosecution.

Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, condemned the attack, warning the public against vigilantism and superstitious violence while assuring that all perpetrators involved will face legal justice.