Operatives of Operation Enduring Peace have shot and killed two suspected criminals in Plateau State who were in custody for the brutal murder of a couple over witchcraft allegations. The fatal shooting occurred after the suspects reportedly tried to flee from military custody during transit.
The incident centers on the killings of 58-year-old Abdullah Adamu and his 45-year-old wife, Habiba Ibrahim, who were attacked on their farm in the Bashar District of Wase Local Government Area. Two primary suspects—22-year-old Hussaini Mallam Yusufu and 24-year-old Ishaku Sule—were apprehended on November 4, 2026, in connection with the crime and broader terrorist activities.
Why were the suspects arrested?
According to security intelligence provided by analyst Zagazola Makama, preliminary interrogations indicated that Yusufu, Sule, and an unidentified third accomplice orchestrated the murders. During questioning, one of the detained men claimed he carried out the attack because he had a dream in which Habiba Ibrahim was identified as a witch planning to harm him.
How did the escape attempt happen?
Following their arrest, Sector 2 troops of Operation Enduring Peace were transporting the suspects toward Wase town at approximately 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, for transfer to the operation's main headquarters.
Sources indicated that one of the military Hilux transport vehicles experienced a minor mechanical failure, requiring the convoy to halt for repairs. While the soldiers were attending to the vehicle, both Yusufu and Sule suddenly bolted from the transport in an effort to break away. Military personnel reacted immediately, shooting and neutralising them during the escape attempt.
Such violent incidents underscore ongoing security challenges and the persistence of extra-judicial violence rooted in superstition in remote rural communities. Authorities continue to investigate the wider network connected to the suspects.