Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
AZARE – Four men have been arrested by police in Bauchi State, northern Nigeria, after they allegedly agreed to swap wives with one another for sexual gratification, in a case that has shocked local communities.
The suspects – Bashir Adamu of Comprehensive Area, Auwalu Mohammed of Gadum Area, a man identified only as Mohammed of Sabuwar NEPA Area, and Salisu Mohammed of the same locality – were taken into custody by the Azare Division of the Bauchi State Police Command.
They face allegations of criminal conspiracy, adultery, and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace, according to a report by P.M.EXPRESS.
The arrests followed complaints from residents and intelligence from within the group, said Mallam Rilwan Khairan, the Zonal Commander of Hisbah, Katagum Zone.
The Hisbah is the Islamic religious enforcement body.
Commander Khairan said the men were part of what he called the “Wuddadu group” and had been engaging in the practice under the guise of temporary marriages.
He described the behaviour as a violation of both Islamic teachings and societal norms, and contrary to public morality and order.
Hisbah’s enforcement unit, codenamed “Operation Ko Ba Kobo”, raided the group’s hideout in Azare and apprehended the four men without resistance. The case was subsequently handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
A police spokesman confirmed that the suspects remain in custody and are assisting with inquiries. They are expected to be charged in court once investigations are concluded, in line with the state’s criminal laws.
The Bauchi State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside agencies such as Hisbah to tackle acts that threaten public morality and security, adding that collaboration between conventional and Sharia enforcement units helps address sensitive community issues.
Residents were urged to report suspicious activity to law enforcement and to refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
Officers also warned against spreading unverified information that could inflame local tensions.
