Police Inspector Brutally Beats Three Children Over Alleged Witchcraft

A police inspector in Yenagoa has been arrested after allegedly assaulting his three children over claims of witchcraft, sparking outrage from rights groups and calls for justice.

A shocking incident in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, has sparked widespread outrage after a police inspector allegedly brutally assaulted his three children over accusations of witchcraft.

The suspect, identified only as John, is attached to the Anti-Cultism Unit of Igbogene Police Station. Eyewitnesses reported that concerned neighbours raised the alarm, prompting the State Security Patrol (Doo Akpor) to intervene and rescue the children, who were promptly taken to a hospital for treatment. Authorities say the children’s condition is stable, but concerns remain about their safety while under care.

The case has drawn strong condemnation from several civil society and rights groups, including the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Bayelsa Chapter, led by Dr. Bomq Toney Miebai; the National Association of Women Against Gender-Based Violence (NAWAGBV), headed by Dr. Dise Ogbise Goddy Harry; and the Do Foundation, Bayelsa Chapter, under the leadership of Dianna Iluma. These organisations have initiated a criminal case of assault and attempted murder against the inspector at Akenfa Police Station.

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The Bayelsa Ministry of Women Affairs and Gender has also intervened, with the Permanent Secretary visiting both the police station and the hospital to assess the situation. Dr. Harry called on public support for the victims, noting that the Commissioner of Police had ordered the arrest of the accused and the transfer of the case to the police headquarters for a thorough investigation.

“The accused will face the full force of the law,” Harry said, adding, “We are calling on public-spirited individuals and groups to assist the children in reclaiming their lives.”

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Musa Muhammed, confirmed the arrest but said that details are still emerging.

The incident has reignited calls for stronger protection for children and greater accountability for abuses by law enforcement officers in the state.