The Katsina State Police Command has arrested a 35-year-old man, Sahabi Rabi’u, in connection with the gruesome killing of a nursing mother and her 10-month-old baby in Sheme village, Faskari Local Government Area. The shocking incident has left residents of the community in fear and grief.
The Katsina Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, confirmed on Thursday that the suspect confessed to the crime during interrogation. He disclosed that Rabi’u did not act alone, as he had an accomplice who is still at large.
According to the police, the victims—a 30-year-old mother and her infant—were lured to the outskirts of Sheme village, killed, and their bodies set ablaze before being thrown into a nearby well. Investigators have suggested that the killings may have been linked to a paternity dispute involving the mother.
DSP Sadiq explained, “The suspect, Sahabi Rabi’u, has confessed to the murder during questioning. He also mentioned that he acted with another person who is currently at large. The police are actively working to arrest the second suspect.”
The bodies of the mother and child were recovered from the well following the police investigation, bringing to an end the harrowing ordeal that had shocked residents of the community.
The killing has sent shockwaves through Sheme village and neighboring communities. Residents described the act as barbaric and inhumane, expressing fear for their safety and calling for justice.
Speaking on the incident, Katsina Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Shehu, condemned the killings in strong terms. He described the act as “barbaric and inhumane” and assured the public that the investigation would be thorough, with the culprits brought to justice.
CP Shehu urged members of the public to provide information that could assist the police in apprehending the second suspect. He emphasized the need for confidential tips, stressing that community cooperation is essential in solving such heinous crimes.
“The Katsina Police Command is committed to ensuring that perpetrators of such barbaric acts are brought to justice. We appeal to anyone with information about the accomplice to come forward,” CP Shehu said.
Police investigations revealed that the suspect and his accomplice deliberately targeted the mother and her child, luring them away from the village before committing the crime. The motive appears to be linked to a personal dispute, reportedly involving paternity issues.
Authorities have assured the public that all possible leads are being pursued to ensure the arrest of the fleeing accomplice. Investigators are also examining the circumstances that allowed such a violent act to occur, with a focus on preventing similar incidents in the future.
DSP Sadiq said, “Efforts are ongoing to bring the second suspect to justice. The police will not rest until the person responsible is apprehended and faces the full force of the law.”
The Katsina State Police Command is working closely with local leaders and community members to enhance security in Faskari Local Government Area, especially in Sheme village, to prevent the recurrence of such violent crimes.
Tragically, attacks on women and children are not uncommon in Nigeria. Over the past decade, there have been multiple reports of women and infants falling victim to violent crimes, often linked to domestic disputes, paternity conflicts, or other personal disagreements.
Residents of Sheme village have expressed outrage at the killings, describing the incident as a dark day in the community’s history. Many have called for swift justice, stressing that such acts should not go unpunished.
One resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “This is a terrible tragedy. How can someone kill a mother and her baby? We demand that the police catch all the perpetrators and ensure they face the full punishment of the law.”
In response to the incident, Katsina State authorities have assured residents of heightened security measures, especially in vulnerable rural communities. The state government and police command have pledged to strengthen patrols and improve rapid response to threats in remote areas.
The Katsina Commissioner of Police reiterated that the investigation will be exhaustive, and the suspect in custody will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. The authorities also promised regular updates to the public as the investigation progresses.
“This kind of barbaric act cannot be tolerated. We are committed to protecting citizens and ensuring justice is served,” CP Shehu said.
