Violence erupted in Rano Local Government Area of Kano State on Sunday evening after the death of a young motorcycle mechanic, Abdullahi Musa, in police custody, prompting angry youths to storm and set ablaze parts of the Rano Divisional Police Station. The unrest led to widespread vandalism and the death of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), according to a statement by the Kano State Police Command.
The Incident
The police said Musa was arrested following multiple complaints from residents that he had been riding recklessly, allegedly under the influence of drugs. While in custody, Musa reportedly became weak and was rushed to Rano General Hospital, where he died Monday morning while receiving treatment. News of his death spread quickly, sparking protests by youths demanding answers. The protest soon escalated into chaos, with demonstrators storming the police station, setting it ablaze, and vandalizing at least 10 vehicles. Two vehicles were completely torched, according to the police.
Death of the DPO
In the violence that ensued, the DPO of the Rano Division was seriously injured and later died while receiving treatment at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. His identity has not been publicly disclosed.
Police and Protester Accounts
The police confirmed that 27 suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack. However, local sources allege that the protest was peaceful until security operatives opened fire on the demonstrators.
“We were protesting peacefully. We only wanted answers about what happened to Abdullahi Musa. But they started shooting at us, injuring two young men,” a resident said anonymously. The injured, Kabiru Muhammad and Muhammad Ibrahim, are reportedly receiving treatment at Rano General Hospital.Another local said, “It’s a sad day for our community. Abdullahi Musa was not a criminal. He was arrested, and now he is dead. We want justice.”
Police Reaction
Kano State Police Command Spokesman, Abdullahi Haruna, confirmed the incident and promised a thorough investigation. “Incident in Rano, thorough investigation will be conducted by the Grace of God,” Haruna stated. Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, visited the area on Monday for an on-the-spot assessment and to restore normalcy.
Next Steps
Tensions remain high in the community as residents call for justice for Abdullahi Musa, while authorities work to prevent further escalation. Security has been beefed up in the area, and investigations into both the cause of Musa’s death and the attack on the police station are underway.
