Bauchi Police Arrest 17 Over Witchcraft Attack on Family

On October 18, 2026, the Bauchi State Police Command arrested 17 men in connection with a violent attack on a family in Gobirawa Village, Alkaleri Local Government Area. The incident was allegedly sparked by accusations of witchcraft against the son of a 60-year-old man, following the death of 20-year-old Halilu Ahmad.

The suspects reportedly attacked the family with machetes and sticks, resulting in injuries to a man named Abubakar, who sustained multiple fractures and other injuries. His 30-year-old son was also injured, and two motorcycles belonging to the family were damaged.

The police stated that preliminary investigations linked the violence to the witchcraft allegations. Abubakar was initially treated at the General Hospital in Alkaleri before being referred to Ihsan Hospital in Bauchi due to his deteriorating condition.

The Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has instructed the State Criminal Investigation Department to investigate the case further and pursue three additional suspects who remain at large.