Boy, 13, killed by loaded gun in Bauchi

The Bauchi State Police have arrested a suspect after a 13-year-old boy was shot. The incident happened when the boy allegedly pulled the trigger of a loaded Dane gun in the Gamawa Local Government Area.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, shared details in a statement on Sunday. He confirmed that the police are looking into the death of Mubarak Mohammed in Udubo village, Gamawa LGA. A 35-year-old hunter, Suleiman Hamza, reportedly returned from hunting around 4:30 PM on Saturday and carelessly left his loaded gun in his room before stepping out.

The PPRO explained, "After that, a teenager, Mubarak Mohd ‘m’, 13 years old, from the same address, allegedly entered the room and pulled the trigger, causing the gun to go off and injure him fatally." Detectives from the Gamawa Division quickly went to the scene for an initial investigation.

"The victim was taken to the General Hospital, Gamawa, for a post-mortem examination, where the doctor confirmed him dead," Habib noted. He added that photos were taken before the body was released to the boy's family for burial as per Islamic customs.

The suspect has been arrested. The initial investigation is done, and the case has been sent to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further inquiry.

Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, praised the police for their quick action. He expressed sadness over the tragic event in Gamawa and warned hunters and firearm owners to handle their weapons carefully. Habib reported that the CP urged gun owners to store their firearms safely and away from children to prevent such incidents.

The police assured residents of their dedication to protecting lives and property. They also encouraged the public to keep giving timely and reliable information to the police.