Kano Youths Set Police Station Ablaze Following Death of Man in Custody

Violence erupted on Monday, May 26, in Rano local government area of Kano State following the death of a young man named Abdullahi Musa, who reportedly died while in police custody.

The incident triggered public outrage, sparking protests that culminated in the burning of the Rano Divisional Police Headquarters.

Residents said Musa, who was arrested for a traffic-related offense, died during interrogation.

Eyewitnesses accused the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rano, Baba Ali, of subjecting Musa to severe physical assault, which led to his untimely death.

“A young man was beaten mercilessly by the DPO. Later, we heard he d!ed in their custody. That’s what triggered the protest” a resident simply identified as Muhammad revealed.

Musa’s death sparked widespread anger among local youths, who gathered at the police station demanding justice. The protest escalated when police reportedly opened fire to disperse the crowd, injuring at least two protesters, Hassan Salisu Hassan and Muhammad Ibrahim.

The injured were rushed to Rano General Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.

 “In retaliation, the enraged youths began hurling stones at the police officers and eventually set the station on fire.”

Reports indicate that the Divisional Police Officer, Baba Ali, also sustained serious injuries during the confrontation and is currently receiving medical treatment.

The Kano State Police Command has confirmed the incident.

Spokesperson SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa assured the public that a thorough investigation would be launched.

Responding on his official Facebook page, Kiyawa wrote, “Incident in Rano — thorough investigation will be conducted by the Grace of God.”