From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Police in Kaduna have launched a thorough investigation into a tragic incident on April 22, where a Dane gun discharged during a suspected shooting competition in the Abakpa area of Kaduna city, killing a 12-year-old boy, Abubakar Muhammed, and injuring seven others.
The Kaduna State Police Command has promised to provide updates as assessments continue to clarify the circumstances of the incident.
In a statement issued on 22 April 2025, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said: “On 22nd April 2025 at about 0830 hrs, the Police received a distress call regarding a suspected blast in the Josawa Road area of Abakpa, Kaduna. In response, a team of policemen led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Kawo Division, was immediately dispatched to the scene. The incident claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy, identified as Abubakar Muhammed of Josawa Road. Additionally, seven other individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.”
The Commissioner of Police, the Garrison Commander, the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Chairman of Kaduna North Local Government visited the scene, conducting a detailed on-site assessment. Initial reports of an explosion were debunked by the Officer in Charge of the Police Anti-Bomb Squad, who confirmed that a locally made firearm, known as a Dane gun, was discharged, causing the boy’s death.
Hassan stated, “Preliminary investigations conducted by the Officer in Charge of the Police Anti-Bomb Squad indicate that a locally made firearm (Dane gun) was discharged, resulting in the unfortunate loss of life of the young boy.”
The police are continuing investigations to determine the exact circumstances, with a commitment to transparent communication.
The statement concluded, “The Command extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured.”