Kaduna Mob Lynches, Incinerates Woman Over Child Theft Claims

In a shocking display of jungle justice, residents of Maraban Jos in Kaduna State brutally murdered Malama Ummulkhairi, an Islamic teacher and mother of over five children, before setting her body ablaze. The horrific incident occurred on Sunday, June 21, 2026, stemming from unverified allegations of child theft. This tragic event has ignited widespread condemnation and reignited concerns about the pervasive issue of mob violence, lawlessness, and the dangerous spread of misinformation in the state.

According to accounts from her family and associates, Malama Ummulkhairi had journeyed from the New Maraban Jos area to attend an Islamic lecture organized at a local school in the old Maraban Jos axis. Reports indicate that she became disoriented and separated from her companions, subsequently asking children in the vicinity for directions. Shortly after, some community members reportedly accused her of attempting to abduct children – an accusation that both witnesses and her relatives vehemently deny as baseless.

As tensions escalated, a large crowd quickly formed. The woman was reportedly taken to a nearby police station, ostensibly for her protection and for an investigation into the allegations. Family members who arrived at the station attempted to identify her and clarify that she was a well-known Islamic teacher. Witnesses also stated that efforts were made to pacify the agitated crowd and urge them to allow law enforcement agencies to conduct a proper investigation.

However, a large and aggressive mob later stormed the police station. They overpowered the officers on duty, forcibly removing Malama Ummulkhairi from police custody. The mob then proceeded to k!ll her and subsequently set her body on fire.

The Kaduna State Police Command has strongly denounced this barbaric act. DSP Mansir Hassan, the command's spokesperson, described the incident as "barbaric, criminal and a direct assault on the rule of law." He affirmed that police officers had taken the woman into custody to ensure her safety and to investigate the claims against her before the station was attacked by the mob. The command announced that several suspects have already been apprehended, with ongoing efforts to arrest all other individuals involved in the violent attack. A comprehensive investigation has been launched, and the police assured the public that all perpetrators would be brought to justice.

CP Rabiu Muhammad, the Commissioner of Police, issued a stern warning that the command would not condone jungle justice, mob violence, or any attacks on police facilities and personnel. He implored members of the public to report any suspicious criminal activities to the appropriate law enforcement agencies and to allow due legal process to take its course.