Police nab 27 suspects over Kano DPO’s murder

The Kano State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Rano, following violent protests that erupted in the town after a young man reportedly died in police custody.

The unrest, which broke out over the weekend, led to chaos in Rano as residents took to the streets demanding justice. In the wake of the violence, the police have arrested 27 suspects believed to be connected to the incident.

Confirming the development, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna, issued a statement on Monday evening, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of the senior officer and assuring the public that investigations are underway.

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“The Kano State Police Command is aware of an unfortunate incident that occurred on May 25, 2025, at about 08:15pm, in Rano Local Government Area, where based on public outcry and complaints, a motorcycle mechanic, one Abdullahi Musa, suspected to be under the influence of substances, was arrested and detained for reckless and dangerous riding.

“The suspect was taken into custody and later showed signs of weakness, prompting his being rushed to the Rano General Hospital, where he unfortunately passed away on May 26, 2025, at about 06:00am, while receiving treatment.

“Following the incident, some miscreants mobilised and attacked the Rano Police Division, looting, setting parts of it and two vehicles ablaze, destroying 10 other vehicles and seriously injured the Divisional Police Officer.

According to him, the DPO was rushed to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, where he later died while receiving treatment.

“Twenty (27) suspects have been arrested in connection with the incidents. The situation has been brought under control, and normalcy has been restored,” Haruna said.

He said the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, after visiting the scene and paying condolence visit to the Emir of Rano, Ambassador Dr. Mohammed Isah Umar, ordered a comprehensive and transparent investigation to identify the remote and immediate causes of the incidents and bring those responsible for any wrongdoing to justice.

“The Command while commiserating with the family of the deceased DPO that paid the supreme price in active service, appeals to residents to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their hands, allowing the investigation to progress uninterrupted.

“The Command assures the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and public order in the state and urges everyone to co-operate with the authorities during this investigation,” the statement added.