27 arrested after mob kills divisional police officer in Kano

The Kano State Police Command has confirmed the death of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rano following a violent protest triggered by the death of a young man in police custody.

Police spokesperson SP Abdullahi Haruna, in a statement issued Monday evening, said 27 suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, which saw the Rano Police Division attacked and partially set ablaze.

According to the statement, the unrest began on May 25, 2025, when police arrested a motorcycle mechanic, Abdullahi Musa, in Rano Local Government Area following public complaints. Musa, suspected to be under the influence of substances, was reportedly detained for reckless and dangerous riding.

“While in custody, the suspect showed signs of weakness and was rushed to the Rano General Hospital, where he sadly passed away on May 26 at about 6:00 a.m. while receiving treatment,” Haruna stated.

In response to Musa’s death, a mob stormed the Rano Police Division, setting parts of the station and two vehicles on fire, destroying 10 other vehicles, and severely injuring the DPO, who later died from his injuries.

Haruna said that the situation has since been brought under control and that normalcy has returned to the area.

The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, has visited the scene and paid a condolence visit to the Emir of Rano, Ambassador Dr. Mohammed Isah Umar. He has also ordered a full and transparent investigation to determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the incident and to ensure all those responsible are brought to justice.

“The Command commiserates with the family of the fallen DPO, who paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” the statement read. “We urge residents to remain calm, avoid taking the law into their hands, and allow the investigation to proceed without interference.”

The police further assured the public of their commitment to maintaining peace and order across the state and called for continued cooperation from citizens.