Nigeria: Suspected drug dealer dies after violent clash with police in Katsina night raid

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

A late-night police operation in Katsina State ended in tragedy after a suspected drug dealer lost his life during a confrontation with security operatives in the Sabuwar Anguwa area of Katsina Local Government.

The incident happened around 10pm on December 27, when police officers acting on intelligence carried out a raid in the neighborhood. During the operation, the suspect, identified as Uzairu Kuda, was reportedly found with substances believed to be illegal drugs. As officers attempted to take him into custody, the situation quickly escalated.

Witness accounts suggest that the suspect resisted arrest and raised an alarm, drawing the attention of others believed to be members of a local gang. Stones were thrown at the police team, damaging their vehicle, and chaos broke out at the scene. In the struggle that followed, the suspect allegedly attacked one of the officers with a knife, leaving the policeman seriously injured.

In response, an officer fired his weapon, hitting the suspect. He was rushed to the General Hospital in Katsina, where he was later confirmed dead. The injured police officer is currently receiving medical care.

Items believed to be drugs, along with weapons recovered at the scene, were taken into police custody. The body of the deceased has since been released to his family for burial, in line with local customs.

Police say efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other individuals who fled during the raid. Authorities have also urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with law enforcement, and avoid taking matters into their own hands as investigations continue.