Mob Kills DPO, Torches Police Station and Vehicles in Kano Over Suspect’s Death in Custody

Tragedy struck in Rano Local Government Area of Kano State following a violent protest that led to the death of a Divisional Police Officer (DPO), the burning of a police station, and the destruction of several vehicles. The unrest erupted after the death of a suspect in police custody.

According to reports, the DPO, identified as M.A. Baba, was fatally injured by enraged members of the community who stormed the Rano Divisional Police Headquarters. The mob accused the officer of torturing a detained motorcycle mechanic, Abdullahi Musa, leading to the suspect’s death. Baba later died from his injuries while receiving treatment at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH).

Eyewitnesses said that the protest escalated quickly, with parts of the police station set ablaze, two vehicles burned, and ten others vandalized during the confrontation between local youths and police officers.

The Kano State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that the late Abdullahi Musa had been arrested on May 25, 2025, following public complaints about his reckless riding, allegedly under the influence of substances. While in custody, Musa reportedly developed health complications and was taken to Rano General Hospital, where he died the following morning.

In response to the attack on the station, police arrested 27 individuals in connection with the violence. The state’s Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, visited the scene of the incident alongside Rano LGA Chairman, Hon. Mallam Mohammed Naziru Ya’u, and assured the public that a thorough and transparent investigation would be conducted.

While expressing condolences to the family of the slain DPO, the Police Command appealed for calm, urging residents to allow justice to take its course without resorting to violence. The authorities also reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace and ensuring public safety across the state.