Violence erupted in Rano Local Government Area of Kano State following the death of a suspect in police custody, leading to the killing of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), M.A. Baba, by an angry mob.
The unrest began after Abdullahi Musa, a motorcycle mechanic arrested for reckless driving under the influence, died while in detention. Police claimed he fell ill and died in a hospital, but residents alleged he was tortured to death by the DPO.
Enraged community members stormed the Rano Divisional Police Headquarters on May 25, 2025, setting it and multiple vehicles ablaze. During the chaos, DPO Baba was severely beaten and later died at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.
According to Kano Police Spokesperson SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, 27 suspects have been arrested in connection with the violence. The police confirmed the deaths of both the DPO and the suspect, and that over 12 vehicles were destroyed.
Kano State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Bakori, visited the scene with local officials and ordered a comprehensive investigation urging residents to remain calm and allow justice to take its course. He assured the public of the police’s commitment to restoring peace in the area.
