The Bauchi state police command has arrested 16 suspects over the abduction and murder of two seven-year-old girls, Khadija Sama’ila and A’isha Dahiru, in Unguwan Sarkin Yaki village, Toro Local Government Area.
Police spokesperson CSP Ahmed Wakil revealed the incident occurred on July 22, when a 19-year-old woman, Esther Gambo from Lemoro village, lured the girls under the pretense of a visit. She also allegedly kidnapped a newborn baby belonging to Nafisa Dahiru before taking the girls to a nearby maize farm where she killed them with a machete.
A police operation in collaboration with vigilantes led to Gambo’s arrest, the recovery of the children’s bodies, and the rescue of the abducted baby.
He further revealed preliminary investigation uncovered a wider network, resulting in the arrest of 15 additional suspects, including men and women aged between 17 and 50.
“The killing sparked public unrest, predominantly among the local Muslim youths, resulting in arson of churches and attempts to set fire to the Tulu Divisional Police Headquarters. However, reinforcements from the Area Command Toro and neighbouring divisions were deployed to restore order, successfully repelling the aggressive actions,” the statement revealed.
Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu assured the public that justice will prevail, urging residents to remain law-abiding and avoid mob actions.
Police arrest 16 over alleged murder of two girls in Bauchi
