Police have arrested a Kaduna couple after a teenage boy died following alleged punishment over a disputed cash withdrawal

The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested a couple over the death of a teenage boy identified as Sadiq, who allegedly died after being punished over a disputed cash withdrawal in the Kurmin-Mashi area of Kaduna metropolis.

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Police spokesperson DSP Mansir Hassan confirmed the arrests in a statement on Monday, saying investigators are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.

According to the police, preliminary reports indicate that the teenager had been sent to withdraw money from a Point-of-Sale operator before questions later arose over the transaction.

Authorities alleged that the boy’s mother and stepfather punished him after the money was reported missing. The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday night along Dahiru Road in Kurmin-Mashi.

“The suspects are currently in police custody while investigation is ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the next line of action,” Hassan said.

The heartbreaking case has sparked concern among residents, with several community members expressing shock over the teenager’s death.

Some witnesses claimed neighbours attempted to intervene and appealed for restraint while the incident unfolded, while others said efforts were made to resolve the matter peacefully before the situation escalated.

The police urged residents to remain calm and allow investigators to complete their work, assuring the public that anyone found culpable would face appropriate legal action.

The incident has renewed concerns about child welfare and the dangers of excessive punishment in the home.

Child rights advocates have repeatedly called for greater awareness of non-violent disciplinary methods, warning that physical punishment can have devastating consequences.

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Investigators have not disclosed the teenager’s age or the exact cause of death, and no formal charges had been announced as of Monday. The police said further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.