DPO Killed as Angry Youths Attack Kano Police Station Over Detainee’s Death

 Tensions flared in Kano State on Monday as a violent mob of youths stormed a police station in protest over the alleged death of a detainee in custody, leading to the tragic killing of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the station.

According to eyewitnesses and security sources, the unrest began after news spread that a young man, reportedly arrested earlier by officers attached to the police division, had died while in detention. The circumstances surrounding the detainee’s death remain unclear, but local residents accuse the police of brutality and negligence.

Outraged by the incident, scores of youths gathered outside the police station, demanding answers. The protest quickly turned violent, with the mob setting parts of the station ablaze and attacking officers on duty.

During the chaos, the DPO—whose identity has not yet been officially released—was reportedly lynched by the attackers. Several other officers sustained varying degrees of injuries, and police vehicles were destroyed in the rampage.

In a statement issued late Monday evening, the Kano State Police Command confirmed the death of the senior officer and described the attack as "barbaric and deeply regrettable." The command said reinforcements had been deployed to restore order and secure the area.

“We mourn the loss of one of our finest officers, who died in the line of duty,” the statement read. “Investigations are underway, and those responsible for this heinous act will be brought to justice.”

Community leaders have called for calm, urging residents to allow an independent investigation into the detainee’s death. Human rights organizations have also expressed concern and are demanding transparency from the police regarding both the cause of the detainee’s death and the handling of the ensuing protest.

As of Tuesday morning, a heavy security presence remains in the area to prevent further escalation. The incident has once again reignited national debates over police accountability and the treatment of detainees in Nigeria’s criminal justice system.