Update

Casualties Mount as Death Toll in Kano Mosque Attack Climbs to 11

Written by Jerry Alomatu on May 16, 2024

News Views: 222

The Kano State Police Command has officially announced the demise of eight out of the 24 individuals affected by the Gezawa Mosque assault, with 17 others currently under medical care at the hospital.

Initially, one fatality was reported. However, the police have apprehended the suspect, Shafiu Abubakar, 38, who admitted his actions were driven by vengeance over a disputed inheritance, alleging he was deceived.

A village resident, Rabiu Gadan, confirmed to Leadership that 11 people have succumbed to their injuries so far. He stated that eight of them have already been laid to rest, while preparations for the burial of the remaining three are underway for Thursday.

Gadan revealed that this was not Abubakar’s first violent episode, noting his previous assaults on two of his older brothers, after which he turned himself in to the police, claiming responsibility for their deaths.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna, verified the death toll late Wednesday, disclosing that seven more victims had passed away while receiving treatment.

Haruna stated, “The victims succumbed to injuries sustained in the unfortunate incident.” He further noted that 17 individuals were still undergoing treatment at the hospital.

Allegedly, Abubakar doused the mosque area with petroleum before locking the doors and igniting the blaze.

The prime suspect is presently in police custody, aiding in the ongoing investigation.

Shafi’u Abubakar, aged 38, confessed that his actions stemmed from deep-seated hostility, fueled by a prolonged family feud over inheritance. He claimed those he accused of cheating him were present in the mosque at the time, prompting him to take drastic measures to make his grievances known,” the police spokesman explained.

Sadik Kamal recounted his harrowing experience to The PUNCH, describing his frantic attempts to escape as flames engulfed the mosque. He mentioned that late arrivals struggled to unlock the doors to rescue those trapped inside.