The Borno State Police Command has arrested a 30-year-old teacher, Bukar Modu, for allegedly assaulting a 10-year-old boy, Bashir Babaji, for absconding from class in the Bulabulin area of Maiduguri, the state capital.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Daso, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

A video had gone viral over the weekend showing the suspect whipping the minor with a whip while another unidentified young boy poured water and sand on the minor.

The beating persisted despite the cries of the minor and his writhing in pain, with the teacher placing his leg on the minor to prevent him from running.

Narrating the arrest, Daso noted that an investigation into the matter revealed that the incident occurred on March 16.

He added that following the outrage that trailed the video, the command, with the assistance of community members, identified and arrested the suspect.

Daso stated, “The Borno State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of the arrest of one Bukar Modu, 30 years old, in connection with a viral video that surfaced on social media showing the physical abuse of a minor in the Bulabulin Alajeri area along Baga-Road, Maiduguri.

“On Saturday, March 16, 2025, at about 1300HRS, one Bukar Modu was recorded physically assaulting a 10-year-old boy identified as Bashir Babaji. Preliminary investigations revealed that the child, who is his student, was allegedly punished for absconding from class.

“The video, which recently resurfaced and has been widely circulated online, sparked outrage and public concern. Upon receipt of the video, the Command swiftly initiated action to identify and apprehend the suspects. With the support of vigilant community members and operatives of the Civilian Joint Task Force, the suspect was successfully apprehended.”

He added that the minor was taken to a hospital for treatment while the suspect has been subjected to an ongoing investigation.

The PPRO noted that the suspect would be charged in court upon the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.

“The victim has since been taken to the hospital for medical examination and evaluation while the suspect is in custody. The case is still under investigation and will be charged in court.

“While the Command appreciates the public’s concern and compassion over the incident, we urge citizens to refrain from making inflammatory or disruptive comments that could incite unrest or jeopardize ongoing investigations.

“The Borno State Police Command remains committed to upholding justice and ensuring the safety and welfare of all children in the state. We assure the public that this case will be pursued with the utmost diligence and transparency,” the statement concluded. (The PUNCH, but headline rejigged)