Bauchi Detectives Nab Suspects over Murder Linked to Witchcraft Accusations

Bauchi Detectives Nab Suspects over Murder Linked to Witchcraft Accusations

Two Arrested for Murder over Witchcraft Allegations in Bauchi State

In a significant development, detectives from the State Intelligence Department of Bauchi have arrested two suspects in connection with the murder of 45-year-old Ezekiel Samaila, who was killed following accusations of witchcraft.

The command Spokesperson, SP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil said the suspects, 18-year-old Ezekiel Simon from Ndit village in Bogoro Local Government Area and 29-year-old Lumana Zakka from Zuya village, were detained after a thorough investigation launched by authorities.

Ezekiel Samaila was reported missing on September 24, 2024, after he left his home to watch a football match in nearby Nera village. His body was discovered the next day along a roadside close to his residence, and both his motorcycle and mobile phone were missing.

The investigation quickly led to the arrest of Ezekiel Simon, who was found in possession of Samaila’s mobile phone. According to police reports, Simon confessed to collaborating with Zakka in the act, admitting that they assaulted Samaila with a pestle, striking him in the head multiple times.

Lumana Zakka, during questioning, claimed his actions were driven by a desire for revenge, alleging that Samaila was responsible for the deaths of several of his family members, including his mother and two daughters.

The investigation further revealed that the suspects had sold Samaila’s motorcycle for 400,000 naira, with ongoing efforts to recover the vehicle from its buyer.

Upon completion of the investigation, charges of criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, and culpable homicide will be filed against both suspects under the relevant sections of the Penal Code.

The Command has called on anyone with additional information related to the case to come forward.

Under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Auwal Musa Mohammed, the Bauchi State Command reiterates its commitment to maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and protecting lives and property within the state.

This incident underscores the ongoing issues of violence associated with witchcraft allegations in the region, highlighting the need for community education and intervention strategies.

By PRNigeria