Criminal Gangs Burn NSCDC Outpost, Injure Policemen In Katsina
Suspected criminal gangs in Katsina have burnt down a local outpost of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in an apparent reprisal over the death of a notorious gang member and drug dealer, Uzairu Kuda.
Kuda died on December 27, while trying to disarm a policeman. A team of policemen had raided his enclave at Sabuwar Unguwa Quarters, Katsina, where his violent criminal gangs reside.
According to the police, the area was raided following credible intelligence on the activities of Kuda, who is a notorious drug peddler and member of the criminal gangs terrorising Katsina Metropolis.
The police said he was found in possession of illicit drugs and a dangerous weapons, but resisted arrest and raised an alarm, inviting his gang members who criminally conspired and attacked the police team, damaging the operational vehicle and injuring several officers.
“The miscreants, in a bid to disarm one of the officers, stabbed him with a knife; during the struggle to secure the rifle, a shot was released, hitting and injuring Kuda. He was rushed to the hospital and was unfortunately confirmed dead by the doctor on duty,” spokesperson of Katsina State Police Command, DSP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu said in a statement.
He said Kuda’s gang members attacked the NSCDC outpost during the deceased funeral procession. They also attempted to set a nearby police outpost ablaze.
“Upon receiving the report, police reinforcements were quickly dispatched to the scene. In collaboration with personnel of the NSCDC, the officers tried to bring the situation under control; unfortunately, the miscreants became more aggressive, inflicting a deep machete cut on one policeman and causing significant damage to a police patrol van.
“Tragically, stray bullets hit two persons, who were rushed to the nearest hospital for medical attention. Sadly, one of the injured was confirmed dead by the doctor on duty upon arrival, while the other is responding to medical treatment. However, normalcy has been restored to the affected area.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered an immediate thorough investigation into the matter to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.
“The Katsina State Command calls on the public to remain calm and support and cooperate with the command as the investigation proceeds. We further urge the public to always exercise maximum restraint and avoid taking the law into our own hands.”
