Bauchi Police Rescue Man Allegedly Chained by Father for 17 Years, Launch Full Investigation

Shocking confinement case in Bauchi as police arrest suspect and transfer matter to State CID for thorough probe

Police in Bauchi have rescued a middle-aged man allegedly confined and kept in chains by his biological father for nearly 17 years in Shadawanka village, Bauchi Local Government Area.

The victim, identified as Muhammad Lawan, popularly known as Babangida, was freed on Sunday, February 16, 2026, following a tip-off from a concerned resident who alerted authorities to his condition.

Rescue Operation in Shadawanka Village

According to a statement by the Bauchi State Police Command spokesperson, Nafiu Habib, detectives moved swiftly after receiving the report.

A team led by the Divisional Police Officer of ‘B’ Division visited the residence alongside senior officers. On arrival, they reportedly found the man in a severely weakened condition and immediately secured his release.

He was taken to a medical facility for urgent treatment and rehabilitation.

Father Arrested, Investigation Underway

The victim’s father, Mohammed Lawan, has been arrested and is currently in police custody.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has ordered a preliminary investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged confinement.

The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for a detailed probe into what police described as alleged inhumane treatment.

Authorities say further information will be released as investigations continue.

Public Reaction and Legal Questions

The case has triggered outrage among residents and human rights advocates, with many calling for a thorough investigation and appropriate legal action if the allegations are substantiated.

Legal analysts note that prolonged unlawful confinement and abuse could attract serious criminal charges under Nigerian law.

For now, the focus remains on the victim’s medical recovery and the outcome of the ongoing investigation.