Tensions flared in Rano Local Government Area of Kano State on Monday after the death of a young man, Abdullahi Musa, in police custody sparked violent protests.

Abdullahi was reportedly arrested on Sunday over a traffic-related offense.

However, his death during police interrogation ignited outrage among residents, particularly the youth, who accused the police of brutality.

What began as a peaceful protest turned violent when demonstrators set the Rano Divisional Police Headquarters on fire.

Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated when police allegedly opened fire on the crowd, injuring two protesters—Hassan Salisu Hassan and Muhammad Ibrahim—who are now receiving treatment at Rano General Hospital.

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“We were protesting peacefully, just demanding answers about Abdullahi Musa,” said one protester. “Then the police started shooting at us.”

A resident, Malam Yusuf Auwalu, expressed sorrow over the incident. “Abdullahi Musa was not a criminal.

“He was simply arrested, and now he’s dead. We are demanding justice,” he said.

Kano Police Command spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, confirmed the incident and assured that a full investigation would be conducted.

“An incident occurred in Rano — a thorough investigation will be conducted by the Grace of God,” he said.

The incident has intensified calls for accountability and renewed public concern over police conduct in the state.

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