Jigawa Police Arrest Barber Over Alleged Fatal Knife Attack In Hotel Area

The Jigawa State Police Command has arrested a 29-year-old barber, Emmanuel Olatonok, over the alleged killing of a 32-year-old man, Ibrahim Shago, following a disagreement in Dutse metropolis.

The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at about 5:45 p.m. in the Rafin Sanyi area of Dutse Local Government Area.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Shiisu Lawan Adam, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Friday, explaining that the suspect allegedly stabbed the victim in the neck with a knife during an argument.

Adam said Olatonok, who works as a barber at a hotel in the area, was allegedly under the influence of alcohol when the incident happened.

He explained that Shago was immediately taken to a hospital for medical attention but was later pronounced dead by a medical doctor.

The police spokesperson further disclosed that the incident triggered tension in the neighbourhood, as some angry youths reportedly gathered at the scene and attempted to vandalise the hotel where the suspect worked.

However, police operatives attached to the Dutse Division swiftly intervened and restored calm, preventing further violence and possible damage to property.

Adam confirmed that the suspect had been taken into police custody, adding that investigations were ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.

He further stated that the suspect would be charged before a court of competent jurisdiction after the conclusion of the investigation.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Tijjani Murtala, condemned the resort to violence as a means of resolving disagreements.

The commissioner urged residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding, warning against taking the law into their own hands.

He also encouraged members of the public to report disputes and grievances to the appropriate authorities rather than resorting to violence.