Police Avert Mob Action After Man Attacks Worshippers in Bauchi Church

The Bauchi State Police Command has reportedly prevented a potential outbreak of mob violence following an altercation between a motorcyclist and worshippers at a Catholic church in Bogoro Local Government Area of the state.

According to security sources, the incident occurred on Sunday in Jigawa Village Mine after information was received from the Officer-in-Charge of Gobbiya Outstation.

The sources disclosed that the suspect, identified as Ibrahim Mohammed, 30, from Kangere village in Bauchi Local Government Area, was riding a motorcycle when he attempted to pass through an area where a church service was in progress.

Witnesses said members of the church who were on duty stopped him and requested that he avoid passing through the congregation while the service was ongoing.

However, the situation reportedly escalated when the motorcyclist allegedly refused to comply with the instructions.

According to the sources, the disagreement turned violent after the suspect allegedly drew a machete and attacked some of the worshippers.

Three church members were said to have sustained injuries during the incident.

The injured worshippers were identified as Shalom Simon, 27, Tsamani Iliya, 35, and Ibrahim Emmanuel, 29, all residents of Jigawa village.

Following the attack, alarm was raised within the community, attracting residents and worshippers to the scene.

The suspect was reportedly overpowered by members of the community and sustained injuries during an attempted mob action before police officers arrived.

Police operatives were immediately mobilised to the area after receiving reports of the incident.

The officers successfully brought the situation under control and prevented further violence.

The injured worshippers, as well as the suspect, were evacuated for medical attention.

The victims were taken to the State Specialist Hospital in Bogoro, where they are currently receiving treatment.

Police authorities stated that efforts were ongoing to maintain calm in the area and prevent any form of retaliation that could further escalate tensions.

The command assured residents that the situation had been contained and that necessary investigations would be conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Authorities also urged members of the public to remain peaceful and allow law enforcement agencies to handle the matter in accordance with the law.