The Katsina State Police Command has arrested four suspects in connection with a mob action that resulted in the death of one KC Joe in Kokami village, Danja Local Government Area of Katsina State.
According to the command’s spokesperson, Abubakar Sadiq, the suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue.
He explained that the incident stemmed from an initial altercation between the victim and one Ibrahim Auwal, who was allegedly stabbed to death by KC Joe. The development triggered a mob reaction, leading to Joe’s killing.
Police operatives were deployed to the scene following the report, where they secured the area and restored calm while ensuring the safety of affected families.
The Commissioner of Police, Ali Fage, condemned the incident, urging residents to report disputes to law enforcement authorities instead of resorting to violence.
He assured that the matter would be thoroughly investigated and all those involved would be brought to justice.
Meanwhile, the Katsina State Government also condemned the killings, describing them as tragic and unacceptable.
In a statement, the government said the violence began as a disagreement between Ibrahim Khalil Auwal and Joe (also identified as K.C. Jones) over the purchase of garri and sachet water at Joe’s shop.
“What started as a minor argument quickly turned violent. Joe reportedly stabbed Ibrahim Khalil Auwal during the altercation. The victim was rushed to Abdullahi Makama Hospital in Dabai, where he was later confirmed dead.
“Following the news of his death, some angry youths in the community mobilised, attacked Joe, killed him, and set his body ablaze along the highway.”
The State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu Danmusa, described the incident as deeply unfortunate and warned against misrepresenting it as an ethnic or religious conflict.
“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,” he said.
He added that all those involved in both the initial attack and the reprisal killing would be identified and prosecuted.
Security agencies have since been deployed to the area, with joint patrols ongoing to maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda commiserated with the families of the deceased and urged community and religious leaders to support efforts aimed at sustaining peace.
In a separate message marking Easter, the governor called on Christians to strengthen their faith and promote religious harmony, describing unity as essential for the state’s development.
“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,” he said.
He emphasised that cooperation between Christians and Muslims remains vital for progress, urging religious leaders to continue working together to foster peace and development across the state.