The Gombe State Police Command has arrested a 19‑year‑old casual worker in connection with the death of a colleague at the Government House premises in Gombe. The victim, Mallam Umar, popularly known as Baba Usama, was found unresponsive on Friday, December 26, 2025, in what authorities are treating as a suspected culpable homicide.
Disturbing Discovery and Police Response
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, operatives were alerted to the scene at about 3:50 p.m., after receiving a distress call reporting that Umar, who worked as a borehole operator at the Government House, had been discovered motionless within the compound.
Preliminary findings revealed alarming details: Umar was found with his trousers tied around his neck, and a local intoxicant commonly known as “rubber solution” inserted in his mouth. Emergency responders rushed him to the Specialist Hospital, Gombe, where a medical doctor later certified him dead.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
Further investigation, including the review of CCTV footage from the Government House, pointed to Shuaibu Adamu, a 19‑year‑old casual watchman attached to a construction firm operating within the Government House, as the prime suspect.
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Police say the footage showed Adamu allegedly assaulting the deceased shortly before his death, after which he fled the scene. A coordinated follow‑up operation led to his arrest later that night at his hideout in Bagadaza Quarters, Gombe, at around 11:00 p.m.
During preliminary questioning, Adamu reportedly confessed to the crime. Investigators have since deposited the victim’s remains at the hospital mortuary for autopsy as part of ongoing efforts to determine the full circumstances leading to the tragedy.
Police Assurances and Next Steps
The Gombe State Police Command, under the direction of Commissioner of Police Umar Ahmed Chuso, has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a thorough investigation and legal prosecution. Authorities have also reassured the public that security measures around government facilities will be reinforced.
As the case proceeds, updates are expected from the police on any further developments.
