The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested four suspects, including a young woman, over the gruesome killing of a man allegedly lured to his death by his lover and her accomplices in Gidan Kacha village, Gada Local Government Area of the state.
Police investigations revealed that the deceased, identified as Ali Salisu from Darnawa village, was invited by his girlfriend, Rukayya Amadu, to a secluded area under the guise of a private meeting, where he was ambushed and murdered.
According to a statement released on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, the incident occurred on October 4, 2025. Rufai said the suspect conspired with another man, Hamisu Ibrahim, who was reportedly her other lover, to rob and kill the victim.
“Unknown to the victim, Rukayya had planned with Hamisu to attack him. On arrival at the meeting point, Hamisu strangled Ali with a rope before fleeing with his red Kasea motorcycle,” Rufai stated.
He added that further investigation led to the arrest of two additional suspects — Lawali Abdullahi and Ibrahim Abdullahi — who allegedly received and attempted to sell the stolen motorcycle in Sokoto.
“All four suspects have been apprehended and are currently in police custody. They will soon be charged to court for criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, armed robbery, and receiving stolen property,” the police spokesperson confirmed.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Musa, described the incident as “a heartbreaking case of betrayal and misplaced trust,” commending the officers for their swift action.
“This case is both tragic and instructive. It shows how deceit and jealousy can ruin lives. We urge members of the public to be cautious in their personal relationships and to avoid meeting in isolated areas, especially at night,” Musa advised.
He also warned against purchasing valuables such as motorcycles and vehicles without verifying ownership, stressing that “receiving stolen property is a serious crime under the law.”
“Anyone caught in possession of stolen goods will face prosecution. Ignorance of the source is not an excuse,” he warned.
The police boss further assured residents of the command’s commitment to ensuring peace and security across the state, urging the public to report suspicious activities promptly.
“Our mission remains to protect lives and property. With continued cooperation from the public, Sokoto will remain a safe and peaceful state for all,” CP Musa added.
The police said all suspects will be arraigned in court once investigations are concluded.