15‑Year‑Old Boy Dies In Katsina Police Custody, Community Demands Probe

Grief and anger have engulfed the Yankara community in Faskari, Katsina State, following the death of 15‑year‑old Dauda Bishir, who allegedly died in police custody after being arrested over a theft case his guardians insist he knew nothing about.

Dauda, described by residents as a quiet and hardworking Almajiri student, was under the care of Mallam Dauda Yankara before his tragic death.

The incident began when a young man identified as the son of Alhaji Gambo, Abba, was accused of stealing eight bags of soybeans. The suspect was apprehended by community members, reportedly confessed to the theft, and then implicated Bishir, claiming the teenager had seen him on the day he planned to carry out the crime.

Community sources said the suspect had earlier threatened Bishir, warning he would either kill him or drag him into trouble if he spoke. Despite the boy’s repeated claims of innocence, he was reportedly taken into custody by police officers in Yankara for further questioning. Residents said community elders and guardians had already begun efforts to resolve the matter peacefully with the owner of the stolen items before police intervention escalated the situation.

Mallam Abu Hassan Yankara, who spoke on behalf of Mallam Dauda, said the teenager never returned home alive. “We tried to settle the matter within the community even after Bishir insisted he was innocent,” he said amid tears. “Suddenly, the police came and took him away. Later, we heard he had died after being tortured in custody and his body was dumped at the hospital.”

The grieving guardian called on human rights organisations and relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the boy’s death and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. “I want justice for Bishir. He was only about 15 years old and was killed for something he did not commit,” he said.

Community members described the deceased as a disciplined Islamic student who lived a humble life and was known for his good behaviour before the incident that led to his arrest.

When contacted, Nigeria Police Force spokesperson in Katsina State, DSP Abubakar Aliyu Sadiq, confirmed the incident and said the Command had commenced an investigation into the matter, assuring the public that efforts were underway to uncover the true circumstances surrounding the teenager’s death.