By Tina Amanda
A local herbalist’s experiment with a self-made ‘bulletproof’ charm ended in tragedy on November 23, 2024. Ismail Usman, known in the community for his unconventional practices, sustained critical injuries after shooting himself in the stomach with a shotgun to test the charm’s efficacy.
The charm failed to work, leaving Usman with life-threatening injuries. Responding to a distress call by Shandam Michael, officers from the Byazhin Police Division arrived swiftly at the scene.
Usman was immediately rushed to Kubwa General Hospital before being transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital for advanced treatment.
During a search of Usman’s residence, police recovered the homemade firearm and various charms linked to the incident. Investigations are ongoing, and Usman faces potential charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide under Northern Nigeria’s Penal Code.
The Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), CP Olatunji Disu, condemned the act. “This incident underscores the dangers of reckless behavior and the illegal use of firearms,” he stated.
SP Josephine Adeh, the Police Public Relations Officer for the FCT Command, emphasized the importance of community vigilance, urging residents to report suspicious activities.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining public safety as the investigation unfolds.
