The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested an 18-year-old suspect, Aisanu Nura, in connection with the alleged murder of a 17-year-old boy, Abdullahi Muhammad, in Kari Village, Darazo Local Government Area of the state.
The arrest followed a report received at the Darazo Divisional Police Headquarters concerning the disappearance and suspected killing of Abdullahi Muhammad, a resident of Kari Village.
According to the command, the teenager was allegedly drowned in the Kari River under circumstances that pointed to foul play.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly lured the deceased to the river before drowning him.
Acting on the report, operatives of the Darazo Division swiftly mobilised to the scene, arrested the suspect, and commenced an initial investigation into the incident.
Following the development, police, in collaboration with residents and relevant agencies, have launched a search and recovery operation to locate the victim’s remains in the river.
Confirming the incident on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Nafiu Habib, said the command is investigating a case of suspected culpable homicide arising from the tragic event.
He noted that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Bauchi, for a comprehensive and discreet investigation aimed at establishing the full circumstances surrounding the alleged crime.
According to the police spokesperson, investigators are gathering all relevant evidence and statements to aid the prosecution of the case should the allegations be substantiated.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, ordered a thorough, professional, and diligent investigation to ensure justice is served.
The commissioner assured the public that the command remains committed to upholding the rule of law and that anyone found responsible for the death of the teenager would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“The Command will leave no stone unturned in unraveling the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident. Anyone found culpable will be made to face the full weight of the law,” the commissioner stated.
The command also appealed to parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the activities and movements of teenagers under their care.
It urged residents to promptly report suspicious behaviour, threats, or criminal activities to the nearest police station to help prevent similar tragedies.