The Bauchi Police Command has arrested four men for the brutal murder of a 70 years old woman, Talatu Joshua in Gobir village, Kirfi Local Government Area.
As gathered, the elderly woman was ambushed and killed by Rilwanu Usman, Ali Isa, Ila Marafa, and Jamilu Usman, following accusations of witchcraft linked to the illness of the wife of one of the suspects, Ramatu Yusuf.
According to a statement signed by the Bauchi Police spokesman, Ahmed Wakili, the assailants attacked Talatu with sticks, inflicting multiple injuries, including a severe wound beneath her left ear.
She was rushed to the General Hospital in Kirfi but was later pronounced dead.
The suspects were apprehended after the incident was reported and are currently detained at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further questioning.
Wakili said, “The complainant immediately contacted Police ASP Jerry via mobile phone to report the incident, Upon arrival with a team of officers, he found the victim already deceased.”
According to the PPRO, the police investigation revealed that the attack stemmed from a traditional healer’s claim that Talatu was responsible for Ramatu Yusuf’s illness, prompting the suspects to confront and threaten her before the fatal assault.
A petition by Ada-Light Kwaltings, Samuel & Partners alleged that officers at the Kirfi Division failed to arrest the suspects despite knowing their identities.
However, Wakili refuted these claims, stating that the police followed due process, and assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway.
He said, “The Police, as an independent entity, adhere strictly to professional protocols and procedures. Every investigation follows a methodical process that must be diligently observed. We remain committed to uncovering the full circumstances of this tragic event.”
Wakili also urged residents to refrain from spreading unverified information that could disrupt peace in the state, emphasizing the Command’s commitment to ensuring justice for Talatu Joshua and restoring order in the community.
He stated, “Ordinarily, the Command would have overlooked these allegations, but it has become necessary to set the record straight, as misleading statements are circulating among the public. Refrain from spreading false information that could undermine the integrity of the Police and disrupt the peace in Bauchi State. The Bauchi State Police Command remains dedicated to handling this case with the utmost professionalism and objectivity.”
