Many worshippers have been injured after a man reportedly set ablaze a mosque in Gadan Village, in the Gezawa Local Government Area of Kano State.
The incident occurred during the early morning prayers (Subhi) on Wednesday, May 15, 2024.
According to reports, an unidentified assailant ignited a fire using petrol at a mosque while worshippers were engaged in their morning prayers.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that the arsonist locked the mosque doors after setting the fire, trapping the worshippers inside and worsening the situation.
One eyewitness, speaking with a local newspaper, Daily Trust, described the chaotic scene, explaining that it took time for those outside to realize what was happening and to rescue the trapped victims who were desperately trying to escape the burning building.
The attack resulted in at least 20 worshippers sustaining injuries. Emergency services responded promptly, and the injured were transported to the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano for medical treatment.
However, speaking on the development, a spokesman for the Kano State Police Command, Abdullahi Kiyawa, said preliminary forensic analysis showed that the explosion was suspected to be caused by petrol.
“The scene was cordoned off, and the victims were rushed to the hospital where they are currently receiving medical care,” Kiyawa added.
The principal suspect, identified as 38-year-old Shafi’u Abubakar, has been arrested.
In his statement to the police, the suspect cited a prolonged family dispute over inheritance as his motive. “He said his action was purely in hostility following a prolonged family disagreement over sharing of inheritance, and he did that for his voice to be heard,” Kiyawa reported.
The police assured the public that a detailed investigation is underway and more information will be released in due course.
“The suspect is currently in police custody, and a detailed investigation is ongoing,” emphasised Kiyawa.
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