The Katsina State Police Command has detained four suspects over a mob attack that resulted in the death of one KC Joe in Kokami village, Danja Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, Abubakar Sadiq, disclosed on Sunday that the suspects are in custody while investigations continue.
He explained that the incident began with a dispute between the deceased, KC Joe, and Ibrahim Auwal, who was allegedly stabbed to death by Joe, triggering a mob reaction that ultimately led to Joe’s death.
Police operatives were deployed to the scene after receiving reports, restoring calm and ensuring the safety of affected families.
The state Commissioner of Police, Ali Fage, condemned the incident and urged residents to report disputes to law enforcement instead of taking matters into their own hands. He assured that those responsible would face justice.
The Katsina State Government also denounced the killings, stating that the violence stemmed from a disagreement between Ibrahim Khalil Auwal and Joe over the purchase of garri and sachet water at Joe’s shop.
According to the government, the argument escalated, leading to Auwal being stabbed. He was rushed to Abdullahi Makama Hospital in Dabai, where he was confirmed dead.
Following news of his death, some youths reportedly mobilised, attacked Joe, killed him, and set his body ablaze along the highway.
Dr Nasir Mu’azu Danmusa, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, described the incident as deeply unfortunate and warned against linking it to ethnic or religious tensions.
“It should be emphasised that the incident was a criminal act arising from a personal dispute. It must not be twisted into an ethnic or religious conflict.
“Katsina State Government strongly assured that all those involved in the violence will be brought to justice. No individual has the right to take the law into their hands. Those responsible for both the initial attack and the reprisal killing will be identified and prosecuted.
“The government also called on residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and avoid spreading rumours or misinformation capable of escalating tension. Similarly, security agencies have since been deployed to the area, and joint patrols are ongoing to maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“The Katsina State Government, under the watch of Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, commiserated with the families of the deceased and prayed for the repose of their souls.”
Meanwhile, Governor Dikko Radda urged Christians to use the Easter season to strengthen faith and promote unity across the state.
“Easter reminds us that hope transcends all challenges. As a state, we must build on this hope. We must build on the foundation of unity and faith.
“When Christians and Muslims stand together, nothing can stop our development. When we are divided, even small tasks become impossible.”