Police in Katsina have taken a 20-year-old man into custody after he allegedly tried to take the life of a 10-year-old boy in a chilling attack linked to ritual practices.
According to details shared with security expert Zagazola Makama, the disturbing incident unfolded on the evening of February 22, around 7:30 p.m., in the quiet community of Kuidawa Village.
The suspect, identified as Aliyu Ashabu, a man who reportedly claimed to be a native doctor known locally as “Boka” is accused of tricking young Alhassan Usman into following him to a secluded bush area.
Once they were alone, Ashabu allegedly carried out a heartless act by pushing the young boy into a deep well.
In a remarkable stroke of luck, the child was discovered and rescued the very next day, February 23, by a compassionate passerby who heard his cries for help.
The boy was immediately rushed to the General Hospital in Katsina, where medical teams are currently treating him for various injuries sustained during his harrowing ordeal.
Police sources confirmed that they were able to track down and arrest the suspect shortly after the boy was found.
While in custody, Ashabu reportedly admitted to the crime, telling investigators he was in the process of preparing charms for an accomplice named Khalid, who managed to escape and remains at large.
The police have stated that the investigation is ongoing, noting that the suspect is likely to be charged with attempted culpable homicide, involvement in unlawful ritual practices, and cultism.