The Kano State Police Command has issued a stern warning against the public display of weapons in the name of traditional performances such as Kidan Gangi, following the arrest of 51 suspects during a recent crackdown on thuggery across the metropolis.
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According to a statement by the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Hussaini Abdullahi, the arrests were made during a three-day operation carried out between June 13 and 15. The exercise, aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts, covered areas including Kofar Mata, Zage, Kurna, Rijiyar Lemo, Dorayi, Hotoro, and Sheka within the Kano Municipal, Dala, Gwale, and Tarauni local government areas.
The operation led to the recovery of dangerous weapons and illicit drugs, although the police did not provide full details of the items seized.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, while commenting on the development, cautioned residents against hiding under the guise of cultural activities to engage in violent acts. He specifically mentioned Kidan Gangi, a traditional performance that has, in some instances, been used to justify the open display of weapons and threats to public safety.
CP Bakori also decried the growing trend of showcasing weapons and gang-related behaviour on social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), warning that such content encourages youth involvement in crime.
He called on parents and guardians to monitor their children’s activities closely and report any suspicious behaviour. “Anyone found brandishing weapons, inciting violence, or conspiring to hide weapons at home will be arrested and prosecuted,” the statement read.
The police also warned blacksmiths against fabricating weapons for such purposes, stating that they would be investigated and prosecuted if found complicit.
