Crime

Suspected Ritualist Kills 6-Year-Old Boy, Hides Mutilated Body in Bag, Escapes Mob Action

A wave of shock and grief has engulfed the Aretalin area of Ovom community in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, following the horrific murder of a six-year-old boy by a man identified as Bobby, suspected to be a ritualist. The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday night when the suspect was caught attempting to flee with the child’s mutilated body concealed in a sack.

Eyewitnesses say the disturbing discovery sparked anger within the local Hausa community, leading to an attempted mob action. The situation was defused by swift intervention from Hausa elders, who calmed the enraged crowd and ensured the suspect was handed over to the police.

The victim was reportedly in Yenagoa to celebrate the Salah holiday with family before his life was brutally cut short. In the wake of the tragedy, a delegation from the National Association of Women Against Gender-Based Violence (AWAGBV) and the Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN), Bayelsa State chapter, visited the bereaved family on Thursday to offer condolences and call for justice.

FOMWAN Chairperson, Hajia Aisha Abeki, condemned the act as horrific and inhumane, expressing deep sorrow and calling on the police to ensure justice is served without delay. AWAGBV President, Dr. Dise Ogbise Goddy Harry, echoed the demand, urging all stakeholders and authorities to act decisively so that the life of the young victim is not lost in vain.

The Bayelsa State Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Dr. Boma Tonye Miebai, confirmed that the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Francis Idu, has assured rights groups of a thorough and transparent investigation. Police spokesperson Musa Mohammed also confirmed the arrest, stating that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further action.