27-Year-Old Man Climbs Telecom Mast in Gombe, Threatens Suicide Over Debts

Operatives of the Gombe State Police Command have rescued a 27-year-old man who attempted to take his own life by climbing a telecommunication mast.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, revealed this in a statement on Monday, March 10, 2025. He identified the man as Mohammed Bello, who claimed he was being pursued by security agencies over unpaid debts.

“On March 8, 2025, the Gombe State Police Command received a distress call through the command Control Room regarding an unidentified individual who had climbed an MTN mast at Maimala Buni Street, Gombe LGA, Gombe state and refused to come down,” the statement read.

“Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer of Pantami Division swiftly mobilized officers to the scene.

“Upon inquiry, the individual claimed he was being pursued/hunted by security agencies over outstanding debts reported by two creditors which he has failed to pay and expressed his preference to end his life rather than face the situation.

“The man was later identified to be one Mohammed Bello, a 27-year-old resident of Jekadafari Quarters, Gombe.

“During the intervention, Katukan Gombe, a respected community leader, persuaded Bello to come down, assuring him that the debts would be settled.

“Following this reassurance, he complied and safely descended from the mast.

“Bello was taken into police custody, where his statement was recorded under caution.

“The Gombe State Police Command commends the swift response of its officers and the intervention of community stakeholders in resolving the situation peacefully.

“The Command urges the public to seek lawful and constructive solutions to financial challenges and reminds individuals that help is always available.”