Four dead, 18 injured during Zakkat distribution in Katsina
Four Dead, 18 Injured in Katsina Stampede During Ramadan Alms Distribution
KATSINA, Nigeria — Four people lost their lives and 18 others sustained injuries in a stampede that occurred during the distribution of Ramadan Zakkat (alms) on Thursday evening.
According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the incident took place around 9 p.m. at the residence of Alhaji Dahiru Usman Sarki in Kofar Guga Quarters. A large crowd had gathered to receive alms when some individuals reportedly forced their way into the compound, causing the stampede.
Local authorities responded swiftly. The Divisional Police Officer of the Central Police Station in Katsina mobilized officers to the scene, managing to restore order. Injured individuals were transported to the General Hospital in Katsina for medical treatment.
Medical officials later confirmed that four of the victims had succumbed to their injuries. They were identified as Bilkisu Mamman, 40, from Kerau Quarters; Ihsan Musbahu, 40, from Abattoir Quarters; Aisha Sani, 16, from Kofar Sauri Quarters; and Salamatu Kabir, 45, from Sabuwar Unguwa Quarters. Another injured person, 15-year-old Hafsat Zubairu from Masanawa Quarters, was referred to the Federal Teaching Hospital for further care.
Police have stated that the organizers of the Zakkat distribution will be questioned as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident.
