Popular Herbalist Escapes Death After Shooting Self While Testing ‘Bulletproof’ Charm, Police React

News Update

THE Federal Capital Territory, FCT Police Command has vowed to prosecute on Ismal Usman, an herbalist in Kuchuyi village in Byazhin area of Abuja who sustained gunshot injuries while testing bulletproof charms he prepared by himself.

The spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh, said this in a statement on Saturday while confirming the incident.

She said the police have already conducted a thorough search of Usman’s home during which the homemade gun and an array of charms he used for his experiment has been recovered.

Adeh added that Usman is expected to face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide under Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria whenever he was discharged from the hospital where he was being treated for the gunshot injuries he inflicted on himself during his experiment.

Narrating how the police got to know about Usman and his bullet charm experiment, Adeh, in the statement, said, “On November 23, 2024, an alarming incident unfolded in Kuchibuyi Village that drew the attention of the FCT Police Command. A distress call from Shandam Michael reported a shocking event involving Ismail Usman, a local herbalist known for his unconventional methods. In a misguided attempt to test the effectiveness of a self-made ‘bulletproof’ charm, Usman shot himself in the stomach with a shotgun.

“Unfortunately, the charm failed to protect him, resulting in life-threatening injuries. Officers from the Byazhin Division responded swiftly, arriving at the scene to find Usman in critical condition. He was quickly transported to Kubwa General Hospital for emergency treatment and later transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital for further care.

“In the aftermath, police conducted a thorough search of Usman’s home, recovering the homemade gun and an array of charms used in his reckless experiment. Investigations are ongoing, and Usman is expected to face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide under Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.”

She quoted Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Olatunji Disu, as condemning the incident while highlighting the dangers associated with illegal firearms.

““This situation illustrates the serious risks of engaging in reckless behavior. We strongly advise the community to avoid such dangerous practices,” Disu was quoted as saying.

Adeh also stressed the importance of community vigilance. “It’s crucial for residents to look out for one another and report any suspicious activities.”

She added that as investigations continue, the police remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.