At least three persons die and several others sustain injuries following a violent clash between security operatives and suspected drug dealers in Katsina metropolis, sparking unrest and property damage in the area.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the incident occurs on Saturday night at about 10:00 p.m. at Kwabron Dorawa, Unguwar Nayalle area of Sabuwar Unguwa Quarters, when security operatives attempt to arrest a suspected drug dealer identified as Uzairu, popularly known as Kuda.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that trouble begins when operatives seize the suspect’s mobile phone and recover suspected illicit drugs during the arrest operation. The suspect reportedly resists arrest and raises an alarm, drawing the attention of other youths in the area.
The situation quickly escalates as the suspect mobilises his associates in an attempt to recover his seized phone. During the confrontation, a security operative allegedly fires a shot that results in the death of the suspect, triggering widespread anger among youths in the community.
In retaliation, angry youths set fire to an outpost of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and burn several motorcycles during the unrest. Residents flee the area in fear as tension spreads across the neighbourhood.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Katsina State Police Command, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, says the violence does not end on Saturday night. Mediaplusng.com reports that the situation worsens on Sunday morning during the funeral procession of the deceased.
According to the police spokesperson, stray bullets fired during the tense atmosphere of the procession hit two additional persons, leaving them injured. The victims are immediately rushed to the nearest hospital, where they currently receive medical treatment.
DSP Sadiq explains that security agencies swiftly move in to restore order and prevent further breakdown of law and order in the area. He confirms that calm is gradually returning to the affected community following increased security presence.
The police command urges residents, especially youths, to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands, stressing that violence only leads to loss of innocent lives and destruction of property.
He assures the public that investigations into the incident are ongoing and that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law. The command also reiterates its commitment to tackling drug-related crimes while ensuring that law enforcement operations are carried out professionally.
Residents of Sabuwar Unguwa describe the incident as tragic and alarming, calling on the government to strengthen community policing, address drug abuse among youths, and improve engagement between security agencies and local communities.
Security experts warn that drug-related violence poses a growing threat to public safety and urge sustained intelligence-led operations, youth sensitisation, and collaboration between residents and security agencies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Katsina State Police Command continues to monitor the situation closely as investigations proceed, while residents hope for lasting peace and improved security across the metropolis.
