17-Year-Old Boy Arrested for Plucking Out Sister’s Eyes in Suspected Money Ritual in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested a 17-year-old boy, identified as Auwalu Muhammad, for allegedly gouging out the eyes of his seven-year-old sister, Rukayya Muhammad, in what police believe was an attempt to perform a money ritual.

The shocking incident occurred on October 17, 2025, in Wailo town, Ganjuwa Local Government Area of Bauchi State. Police spokesperson CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Monday, October 20. According to him, the suspect lured his younger sister into a nearby bush, where he brutally attacked her and removed both of her eyes.

Rukayya was rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi for emergency treatment. However, an ophthalmologist at the hospital confirmed that the girl has permanently lost her sight.

Following the attack, five additional suspects linked to a ritualist syndicate were apprehended. Those arrested alongside Auwalu include Mohammed Rabiu (19), Saleh Ibrahim (20), Nasiru Muhammad of Soro town, Hassan Garba of Soro town, and Garba Dahiru (43).

The police statement revealed that the report was first filed by the victim’s father, Muhammad Adamu, who told officers that his son had lured Rukayya into the bush under false pretenses before attacking her. Detectives from the Soro Divisional Police Headquarters, led by CSP Aliyu Mohammad Goni, quickly moved to the scene and arrested the suspect.

Preliminary investigations suggest that Auwalu acted under the influence of individuals promising him wealth through ritual means. All suspects have reportedly confessed to the crime, and the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, condemned the act and assured that those involved will face the full weight of the law.