Police detain 17 suspects over witchcraft claim in Bauchi, 3 in Delta over alleged N2m theft

Bauchi witchcraft‑related violence A violent assault on a family in Gobirawa Village, Alkaleri Local Government Area, was reported to have been triggered by a claim that the victim’s son was responsible for the death of a 20‑year‑old resident through witchcraft. According to Vanguard News, the attack began around 1 a.m. on 18 October when armed assailants entered the home with machetes and sticks, injuring a 60‑year‑old man and his 30‑year‑old son and damaging two motorcycles.

The victim was first taken to General Hospital in Alkaleri before being transferred to Ihsan Hospital in Bauchi for further treatment. Police investigators later arrested 17 suspects, who were linked to the assault. Vanguard reported that the arrests were carried out by detectives attached to the Alkaleri Division, and that the case was handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a discreet investigation. Three additional suspects remain at large.

The police command issued a warning against the use of unverified superstitious beliefs to justify violence, urging residents to report grievances to the authorities rather than resort to self‑justice.

Delta alleged N2m theft In Delta State, the police arrested three individuals – Bruno Jonathan, Merit Solomon and Edna Iboyi – on 12 October in connection with a reported theft of a point‑of‑sale machine, an Infinix mobile phone and N2 million from a woman’s residence in the Okwagbe Waterside Community. Daily Trust reported that the operation was carried out by the Otu‑Jeremi Division following credible intelligence.

A search of Jonathan’s home yielded a locally made cut‑to‑size gun and a live cartridge. Subsequent investigations led to the detention of Solomon and Iboyi. All three suspects remain in custody while the police continue to establish their individual roles in the alleged robbery. They are expected to be charged once the investigation concludes.

Police response and community impact Both incidents highlight the police’s active role in addressing violent and criminal incidents across Nigeria. In Bauchi, the swift arrest of 17 suspects and the transfer of the case to a specialised investigative unit aim to deter future witchcraft‑based violence. In Delta, the apprehension of three suspects and the recovery of stolen items demonstrate the police’s commitment to tackling property crimes.

These operations underscore the importance of reporting crimes to law enforcement and the need for communities to rely on official channels to maintain public safety.