Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
A mother and her 10‑month‑old baby have been reportedly killed in Sheme village, Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The mother and child were allegedly killed over paternity claims.
Katsina State Police Command has said that investigations were ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident, which occurred at Sheme village.
The Katsina State Command Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, in a statement, said one Sahabi Rabi’u, 35, has been in custody for the killings, while the force has stepped up a manhunt for a suspected accomplice.
According to him, “During interrogation, the suspect confessed to the commission of the crime and further mentioned having conspired with a friend, now at large, to lure the victims to the outskirts of Sheme village, where they were killed. The bodies were burnt and thrown into a nearby well.
“Investigation revealed that the suspects were involved in a paternity dispute with the victim, which escalated to the brutal murder. They allegedly conspired to eliminate the woman and her child.
“The bodies of the victims have been recovered and the suspect is in custody. Efforts are being made to ensure the arrest of the fleeing suspect.
“Commissioner of Police, Bello Shehu, has condemned the act, describing it as barbaric and inhumane.
“He assured the public that the command will ensure that justice is served, as no stone will be left unturned during the investigation.
“The Command appeals to the public for information that may aid the investigation and lead to the arrest of the fleeing suspect. Information given will be treated confidentially.”