BTvNEWS

CP Rabiu Muhammad vows to prosecute all perpetrators, warns against taking the law into one’s own hands

By AbdulHakeem Mutiu Adejumo-Ajeseku
BTV NEWS | Kaduna, Nigeria

BTvNEWS: The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested six suspects in connection with the gruesome mob killing of two innocent travellers at Gidan Kalu Village in Birnin Yero, a few kilometres from Maraban Jos, following false allegations that they were kidnappers and motorcycle thieves.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the tragic incident occurred on July 1, 2026.

The police disclosed that the victims, Muhammadu Sani, 45, and Aliyu Mohammed, 40, both from Umar Village in Igabi Local Government Area, were travelling on a motorcycle to Tudun Wada, Zaria, to visit a sick uncle when they were intercepted by residents of Gidan Kalu Village.

According to the statement, some members of the community became suspicious after noticing the pair riding a new motorcycle and allegedly began shouting “thieves.” Fearing for their safety, the two men reportedly abandoned the motorcycle and attempted to escape.

Despite their repeated explanations that they were not criminals—and although some members of the mob allegedly recognized them—the victims were chased, violently assaulted, and lynched to death by the enraged crowd.

Following a complaint, police operatives attached to the Birnin Yero Division swiftly launched an investigation that led to the arrest of six suspects, including Abdullahi Mukailu Kigo.

The police said the suspects have confessed to participating in the unlawful killing and are currently in custody, while efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the attack.

Reacting to the incident, the Rabiu Muhammad strongly condemned the mob action, describing it as unlawful and unacceptable.

The Commissioner of Police assured the public that every individual found culpable, regardless of status or position, would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

He also cautioned residents against resorting to jungle justice based on mere suspicion or unverified allegations, stressing that no citizen has the legal authority to assume the role of investigator, judge, and executioner.

CP Rabiu reminded the public that under the law, every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law. He urged residents to promptly report suspected criminals to the nearest police station or other security agencies for proper investigation and lawful prosecution, rather than taking the law into their own hands.

The latest incident adds to growing concerns over the recurring cases of mob violence in parts of Kaduna State, with security authorities reiterating the need for greater public awareness, respect for the rule of law, and cooperation with law enforcement agencies to prevent similar tragedies.