The Niger State Police Command has uncovered a harrowing case of ritual murder in Bosso Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of three suspects, including a man accused of orchestrating his sister’s tragic death.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Shawulu Danmamman, disclosed the details during a press briefing at the state police headquarters in Minna on Thursday, December 12, 2024.
The suspects, identified as Habibu Umaru, a herbalist named Aliyu Mallam Taiwe, and one Rabiu Aliyu, were apprehended for criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide.
The investigation began when 25-year-old Hadiza Umaru was reported missing on December 1, 2024, in Garatu, Bosso. Initial attempts to locate her failed, prompting the involvement of the police Crack-Squad Unit. During their investigation, suspicion fell on her brother, Habibu Umaru.
Under interrogation, Habibu reportedly confessed to luring Hadiza to a herbalist, claiming it was for spiritual treatment. The herbalist and his accomplice allegedly administered a poisonous substance to the victim, purportedly to expel an “evil spirit.” Tragically, Hadiza died shortly after consuming the concoction.
The suspects admitted to burying her in a shallow grave within Taiwe Forest near Maitumbi. Further investigation of the area revealed three additional shallow graves, raising concerns about a series of similar killings.
“The suspects confessed to using the same method on other victims, who were stripped and buried in shallow graves,” CP Danmamman stated. “This gruesome discovery highlights the dangerous intersection of criminality and superstition.”
Police are continuing their investigation to determine the identities of the other victims and uncover the full extent of the suspects’ activities. The Commissioner assured that all those involved would face justice.
