Police Arrest 17 After Witchcraft Accusation Leads to Violent Attack in Bauchi

The police in Bauchi state have arrested 17 people following a violent attack on a family in Gobirawa Village. This incident was sparked by accusations of witchcraft against a 60-year-old man’s son after the death of a local resident on October 16, 2026.

The attack occurred around 1 a.m. on October 18, when the suspects allegedly entered the victim’s home armed with machetes and sticks. They inflicted injuries on the man and his 30-year-old son, and also damaged two motorcycles belonging to the family.

According to police, the violence stemmed from the suspects’ belief that the victim’s son was responsible for the death through witchcraft. The 60-year-old man was first taken to General Hospital in Alkaleri and later transferred to Ihsan Hospital in Bauchi for further treatment due to his serious injuries.

Police spokesman SP Nafiu Habib reported that detectives from the Alkaleri Division arrested the suspects after the incident. The police commissioner, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has ordered that the case be moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a thorough investigation. Three other suspects are still being sought.

Aliyu warned against making witchcraft accusations and other unverified claims that could lead to violence. He urged community members to report any suspicions or grievances to the police instead of taking matters into their own hands. The police have committed to ensuring justice and maintaining public peace and security.