17 Arrested in Bauchi for Violent Attack Linked to Witchcraft Allegations

Seventeen men have been arrested in Bauchi, Nigeria, following a violent attack in Gobirawa Village that was linked to allegations of witchcraft. The incident occurred on October 18, 2026, around 1:00 AM, according to the Bauchi State Police Command.

The police stated that the suspects broke into the home of a 60-year-old man, armed with machetes and sticks. During the attack, they injured the man’s son, Abubakar, and caused damage to two motorcycles belonging to the family. The attack reportedly stemmed from the death of a 20-year-old man, Halilu Ahmad, which the suspects attributed to witchcraft.

Following the attack, the police launched an investigation and arrested the suspects later that same day. The police have not only charged them with various crimes but have also noted that three additional suspects are still at large.

The victim’s health has worsened, leading to his transfer to a hospital for further treatment. The police have classified the case as attempted homicide, which is a serious crime.

The Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, condemned the use of violence based on unverified beliefs and urged the public to report such grievances to law enforcement instead of taking matters into their own hands. He assured the community that justice would be served.