A 32-year-old mother of six has d!ed in a tragic incident that occurred at a rice mill in Tumu community, Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State.
The spokesperson for the Gombe State Police Command, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday, September 8, 2025 said the victim, Hauwau Abubakar, suffered a severe neck injury after her clothing got stuck in the rotating belt of a rice milling machine.
The woman was rushed to a hospital where a medical doctor confirmed her d3ad.
The command advised members of the public, especially workers and traders at rice mills, grinding machines, and similar mechanical equipment, to take proper safety precautions.
“The Gombe State Police Command regrets to inform members of the public of a tragic incident that occurred on 07/09/2025 at about 1030hrs in Tumu Community, Akko LGA,” the statement read.
“One Hauwau Abubakar “F” 32 years, married with six children, while at the rice mill to buy rice from Muhammad Danjuma “M” 29 years, a rice miller, unfortunately got her clothing entangled with the rotating belt of the rice milling machine. The machine forcefully dragged her, resulting in a severe neck injury.
“The victim was immediately rushed to the Cottage Hospital, Tumu, where a medical doctor sadly confirmed her d3ad. Her remains have since been released to the family for burial according to Islamic rites.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Yahaya, psc+, expresses heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the entire community over this painful loss of life.
“ADVISORY TO THE PUBLIC: The Command wishes to use this medium to advise members of the public, especially workers and traders at rice mills, grinding machines, and similar mechanical equipment, to take the following safety precautions:
1. Keep a safe distance – Avoid standing too close to moving belts, grinding machines, and milling equipment.
2. Wear proper clothing – Refrain from wearing flowing garments or scarves that can easily get caught in machines.
3. Ensure supervision – Keep children and non-staff away from operating machines.
4. Install machine guards – Operators are strongly advised to provide protective guards around belts, pulleys, and grinders.
5. Report unsafe practices – Members of the public should promptly alert authorities about hazardous handling of machines.
“The Gombe State Police Command assures the public of its unwavering commitment to safety and the protection of lives at all times.”
