The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested a 30-year-old petty trader, Manuda Zakari Ya’u, for allegedly stabbing and killing a commercial motorcyclist, Basiru Mohammed, with the aim of selling his motorcycle to raise money for a third marriage.

According to the police spokesperson, CSP Mohammed Ahmed Wakil, the incident occurred on October 16 at about 9:00 pm in Unguwan Dr. Sulaiman Adamu Quarters near the old airport in Bauchi. The suspect reportedly attacked the 25-year-old motorcyclist during a confrontation, stabbing him with a knife and fleeing with his red Bajaj Boxer motorcycle.

Witnesses said the victim managed to raise an alarm before collapsing, prompting residents to chase the suspect. Their quick response forced Ya’u to abandon the stolen motorcycle and flee the scene. Police detectives from the Yelwa Division were immediately dispatched to the area, but despite being rushed to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), the victim was confirmed dead on arrival.

The police later tracked down the suspect through his mobile phone, which was recovered at the scene. During interrogation, Ya’u admitted to committing the crime, saying he was struggling financially and had planned to use the proceeds from the motorcycle’s sale to pay for a third marriage.

Recovered items included the red Bajaj Boxer motorcycle, a blood-stained knife, a pair of shoes, and an Android phone, all of which will serve as evidence in court. The suspect remains in custody as the police continue their investigation.