Police avert mob action after man attacks worshippers in Bauchi church

The Bauchi State Police Command has reportedly intervened in a case of mob violence following a reported altercation between a motorcyclist and worshippers at a Catholic Church in Bogoro Local Government Area of the state.

Police sources told security expert, Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred on Sunday in Jigawa Village Mine, following information received from the Officer-in-Charge of Gobbiya Outstation.

According to the sources, a passer-by identified as Ibrahim Mohammed, 30, of Kangere village in Bauchi Local Government Area, was riding a motorcycle when he attempted to pass through an area where a church service was ongoing.

He was reportedly stopped by members of the church who were on duty but the situation escalated after he allegedly refused to comply with instructions.

During the confrontation, the suspect allegedly drew a machete and inflicted injuries on three worshippers identified as Shalom Simon, 27; Tsamani Iliya, 35; and Ibrahim Emmanuel, 29, all of Jigawa village.

Following the attack, alarm was raised, and the suspect was overpowered by members of the community, sustaining injuries during the mob action.

Police operatives were swiftly mobilised to the scene upon receipt of the report.

The injured persons were evacuated to the State Specialist Hospital, Bogoro, where they are currently receiving treatment.

Police authorities said efforts were underway to prevent further escalation and possible retaliatory attacks, while assuring residents that the situation had been brought under control.