In a chilling and heartbreaking development, the Bauchi State Police Command has apprehended 16 individuals in connection with the horrific abduction and murder of two innocent seven-year-old girls—Khadija Sama’ila and A’isha Dahiru—in Unguwan Sarkin Yaki, Toro Local Government Area.
The tragedy unfolded on July 22, when 19-year-old Esther Gambo of Lemoro village lured the unsuspecting children under the guise of a friendly visit. In a twisted act of brutality, she also kidnapped a newborn baby belonging to Nafisa Dahiru. According to the police, Gambo then led the girls to a nearby maize farm, where she brutally slaughtered them with a machete.
In a swift and coordinated operation, the Bauchi police, aided by local vigilantes, apprehended Gambo and rescued the abducted infant. The lifeless bodies of the girls were later recovered from the crime scene.
Police spokesperson, CSP Ahmed Wakil, confirmed that a preliminary investigation into the gruesome incident exposed a larger criminal conspiracy. Fifteen additional suspects—both men and women aged between 17 and 50—have since been arrested, pointing to a disturbing web of organized involvement.
“The killing sparked widespread outrage and unrest, particularly among local Muslim youths, culminating in retaliatory attacks on churches and an attempted arson on the Tulu Divisional Police Headquarters,” Wakil disclosed. “However, the swift deployment of reinforcements from the Area Command in Toro and nearby divisions helped to quell the situation and prevent further violence.”
The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, condemned the barbaric act and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. He assured the public that justice will be pursued relentlessly and called on residents to refrain from mob justice or retaliatory actions.
“We urge members of the public to stay calm and trust the police to carry out a thorough investigation and prosecution of all involved. Vigilantism or religious retaliation will only undermine the rule of law and deepen societal wounds,” he said.
As the community grapples with the trauma of this heinous act, authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and order, vowing to dismantle any network of criminality that endangers innocent lives in Bauchi State.
PIONEER NEWS 