Yobe police arrest nine-year-old over house fire that killed four relatives

Police in Yobe State have taken a nine-year-old boy into custody over an alleged arson attack that killed his two stepmothers and two younger brothers at the family home.

The fire happened at Rugan Badal, a settlement in Karasuwa Local Government Area. Police alleged that the child set the house alight after his father punished him for taking a fowl and trying to sell it.

The boy was presented by police in Damaturu on Tuesday alongside his father, according to Daily Trust and Daily Post. The reports do not specify the date of the fire.

In an interview with Channels Television reported by Daily Trust, the child said he bought matches while the four relatives were asleep and started the fire. He also said he called for help without immediately telling neighbours he had started it.

The account remains an allegation under investigation. Police spokesperson ASP Yusuf Adamu-Ali confirmed the arrest, acknowledged the child’s age and said the seriousness of the alleged offence required appropriate legal action.

Police investigations into the circumstances of the fire are continuing.

Sources: Daily Trust, Daily Post