The Bauchi State Police Command has launched an investigation into the killing of a 70-year-old woman, Talatu Joshua, in Kirfi Local Government Area, following allegations of inaction by the Kirfi Police Division.
A statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakil, on Tuesday, confirmed that the police took action after receiving a petition from Ada-Light Kwaltings, Samuel & Partners, regarding the murder of the elderly woman.
“The Bauchi State Police Command has received a petition and correspondence concerning the murder of Talatu Joshua, a 70-year-old resident of Gobir village in the Kirfi Local Government Area (LGA),” Wakil stated.
According to the police, the alleged perpetrators of the crime include Rilwanu Mani (Chiroman Gobir), Ali Isah (Sarkin Gobir), Ila Amo (Marafan Gobir), and Jamilu, all of whom are from Gobir village.
The petition detailed that on March 2, 2025, the victim was assaulted while returning home from St. Benedict Catholic Church.
“She sustained multiple injuries from sticks, knives, and cutlasses, which ultimately resulted in her death at the scene before any intervention by bystanders,” Wakil explained.
Following the attack, ASP Jerry, a police officer, was contacted and arrived at the scene with a team of officers, where they confirmed the victim’s death.
However, the police reportedly did not take further immediate action, leaving the body at the scene and instructing the complainant to await further updates the next day.
“By the 3rd of March 2025, the complainant had not received any communication from the officers of the Kirfi Division. He once again reached out to ASP Jerry for guidance regarding the body. The ASP indicated that all pertinent information had been obtained and advised him to proceed with the burial,” the police spokesperson recounted.
Wakil further revealed that since the incident, none of the suspects had been apprehended for questioning, as they had fled the scene.
Describing the murder as inhumane and unjustifiable, Wakil noted that the failure to arrest the suspects has raised concerns over justice and community security.
Talatu Joshua, a mother of 10 and grandmother of 40, spent her life in Jinga village, Kirfi LGA, and her death has sparked outrage within the community.
Meanwhile, the police assured the public that efforts were ongoing to track down the suspects and ensure justice is served.
