Thugs armed with makeshift weapons have attacked at least seven areas in Kano State’s Dala Local Government Area, setting ablaze two local flour mills, several gurasa (local bread) bakeries, and the residence of a ward head.
The mob, said to be numbering in hundreds, launched the coordinated attacks late on Tuesday night, with the violence stretching into the early hours of Wednesday. Although no deaths were recorded, many residents reportedly sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Affected areas include Dala, Rijiya Biyu, Aikawa, Dukurawa, Shatsari, Kabawa and Kangiwa quarters, all located within Kano metropolis.
Security operatives, supported by vigilante groups, eventually intervened and dispersed the attackers, who fled the scenes to avoid arrest.
One of the affected bakery operators, Muhammad Adam, told reporters that his bakery located along Bala DPO Street in Dala was attacked by hoodlums wielding local weapons.
Confirming the incident, the District Head of the area, Wakilin Arewa, Alhaji Farouk Muhammad, described the attacks as unfortunate and linked them to rising drug abuse among youths.
“This unfortunate incident started from Rijiya Biyu quarters and spread to other areas up to Dukurawa, where several gurasa bakeries were set ablaze,” he said.
He added that the thugs also vandalised a resident’s vehicle and partially burnt the house of the ward head of Rijiya Biyu.
“I seek God’s protection in view of these ugly developments, especially the growing menace of drug abuse and thuggery among youths,” he added.
The Kano State Fire Service also confirmed responding to distress calls around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday. According to the agency, firefighters were able to contain the blaze, which involved bundles of sticks used for bakery operations.
Ahmad Sorondinki, Kano
About the Author
