Katsina State, Nigeria — A tragic incident marred a wedding celebration in Unguwar Liman, Magama Jibia area of Katsina State, as a 10-year-old boy was fatally struck by a stray bullet fired by a member of the Nigerian Hunter Group.

The incident occurred around 2:50 p.m. on Friday, during the wedding fatiha of one of the group's members, turning a day of joy into mourning for the entire community.

The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Adamu Idris, reportedly fired a locally made firearm into the air — a dangerous but common celebratory act in parts of Northern Nigeria. Unfortunately, the bullet struck the young boy, Malam Yusuf, in the stomach, and also hit a 25-year-old woman, Shamsiyya Salisu, in the waist.

Both victims were rushed to the General Hospital in Jibia by concerned residents and police operatives. However, the boy was confirmed dead on arrival, while the woman is still receiving treatment.

The Katsina State Police Command confirmed the incident, noting that the suspect has been arrested. A police spokesperson revealed that officers recovered:

  • A locally made rifle

  • One live cartridge

  • One expended cartridge

"Preliminary investigations have commenced, and the suspect will be charged to court upon conclusion of the inquiry," the police source stated.

Community members have condemned the reckless firing of weapons at social gatherings and urged security agencies and traditional leaders to enforce stricter controls to prevent further loss of lives.

This tragic event has reignited debates around the regulation of firearms in civilian hands, particularly among vigilante and hunter groups in the region.