During a recent press conference, Francis Sardaunain from the Katsina State Police Command addressed a troubling case involving a 24-year-old man accused of raping and attempting to murder a 16-year-old girl in the Katsina Local Government Area.
ASP Abubakar Aliyu, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, reported that the suspect, Usman Mohammed Iyal, was apprehended on September 17 in the Ambassadors’ quarters. Aliyu explained that the incident began when the victim was sent on an errand by her mother. Allegedly, Iyal confronted the girl with a knife, threatening her before dragging her into an incomplete building where he assaulted and raped her.
In a shocking attempt to dispose of evidence and potentially kill the victim, Iyal reportedly threw her into a nearby well and began tossing stones at her. Fortunately, police operatives arrived just in time to rescue the girl and transport her to the hospital for the medical care she desperately needed.
Aliyu elaborated, “On September 27, 2024, at approximately 12:16 PM, the Katsina State Police Command successfully arrested the suspect for the brutal assault and attempted murder of a 16-year-old girl.” He shared that the victim’s father, Abdullahi Sabitu, reported her disappearance at the GRA divisional police headquarters, which prompted immediate action from law enforcement.
A swift investigation led to the rescue of the victim and the capture of the suspect. Aliyu confirmed, “The victim is currently receiving medical attention, and we are continuing our investigation into this heinous crime.”
As the case unfolds, the suspect is anticipated to face serious charges, including rape, assault, and attempted murder, once preliminary inquiries are completed.
