By Sule Aliyu Bauchi
The Bauchi State Police Command has launched a manhunt for a suspected political thug who allegedly chopped off the wrist of a 24-year-old man during a political altercation in Bauchi metropolis.
The incident, which occurred at about 11:30 a.m. on October 14, has prompted renewed warnings from the police against political violence and thuggery capable of threatening public peace and security.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, disclosed the development in a statement, identifying the victim as Usman Idris and the fleeing suspect as Mamman Gore.
According to the police, the altercation involved Idris and one Lawi, both residents of the area behind Isiyaka Jibrin Quarters, Bakin Kura, Bauchi metropolis.
Habib explained that during the confrontation, Gore, an associate of Lawi who also resides in the same neighbourhood, allegedly appeared with a machete and inflicted a severe injury that resulted in the victim’s wrist being chopped off.
The victim reportedly collapsed and lost consciousness following the attack before being rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, for emergency medical attention.
The police spokesperson said Idris remained on admission and was responding to treatment.
He further disclosed that operatives of the ‘A’ Division Township had arrested Lawi in connection with the incident, adding that the suspect was in custody and assisting investigators with their inquiries.
However, Gore, identified as the principal suspect in the alleged attack, reportedly fled to an undisclosed location.
“Concerted efforts have been intensified to track, arrest and bring the fleeing suspect to justice,” the statement said.
Reacting to the incident, the Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, condemned all forms of political violence and thuggery, stressing that the command would not tolerate actions capable of endangering lives or disrupting public peace.
The commissioner urged residents to shun violence, maintain peace and allow the law to take its course as investigations continue.
The police have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and ensure that those found culpable are brought to justice.
