Four feared killed as police disperse Shi’ites procession in Kaduna

Four people have been feared killed and 20 others injured when a procession by members of the proscribed Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) otherwise known as Shi’ites was dispersed by police in Kaduna.

The Nation reports that the Shi’ites trooped out in a large number on Friday for a peaceful procession to mark the International Quds Day in the state capital when the law enforcement operatives, particularly the Nigeria Police, stormed the scene to disperse the procession.

The Shiites assembled near the Katsina roundabout along Ahmadu Bello Way prior to the arrival of the police, who attempted to disperse them.

This situation caused tension and unease among the citizens, especially those with businesses situated along Ahmadu Bello Way as shots were fired by the police to disperse the protesters.

Eyewitnesses said shots were fired during the clash and in the process, four members of the IMN were killed, while about 20 others were injured.

Kaduna State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hasan said three police personnel were injured during the incident.

ASP Hassan also said that no live ammunition was used to dispense the procession.

Speaking earlier during the procession, one of the leaders of IMN, Professor Dauda Nalado, said the Quds day is celebrated annually during the month of Ramadan.