The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested a 17-year-old boy, Auwal Dahiru, along with five other suspects, for allegedly plucking out the eyes of his seven-year-old sister, Rukayya Muhammad, in what authorities described as a gruesome money ritual attempt in Bayan Dutse Village, Wailo, Kubi Ward, Ganjuwa Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
The shocking incident was detailed in a statement issued on Monday by the command’s spokesperson, Superintendent Ahmed Wakil, who confirmed that the crime was reported on October 17, 2025, by one Muhammad Adamu at the Soro Divisional Police Headquarters.
According to Wakil, “A preliminary investigation’s findings exposed that a 7-year-old girl, Rukayya Muhammad, tragically lost her eyesight permanently after her elder brother, Auwalu Muhammad, removed both of her eyes for a money ritual in a desperate attempt to gain wealth.”
He added that the victim’s father, when questioned by investigators, narrated how his son lured the little girl—who shared the same parents—into a nearby bush, where he “brutally attacked her and forcefully plucked her eyes.”
Wakil said the Divisional Police Officer, Aliyu Goni, immediately led a team of detectives to the scene, resulting in the swift arrest of the suspect. The young victim was rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, for emergency medical treatment.
“Unfortunately, a medical doctor (eye specialist) at the hospital confirmed that the young girl will never regain her vision for the rest of her life,” the statement read.
The police further disclosed that five other accomplices—identified as Mohammed Rabiu (19), Saleh Ibrahim (20), Nasiru Muhammad of Soro town, Hassan Garba of Soro town, and Garba Dahiru (43)—were arrested in connection with the horrific crime.
Wakil confirmed that all suspects had voluntarily confessed during interrogation and were assisting the police with further information.
“The investigation is ongoing to uncover the motive behind their heinous act and bring all individuals connected to justice,” he added.
The case has since sparked outrage across Bauchi State, with community leaders and child rights advocates calling for swift prosecution and stronger measures to curb the growing menace of ritual-related crimes in northern Nigeria.
