One Dies, Many Injured As Police, Shiites Clash In Kaduna
Security agents and members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), often known as Shi’ites, battled in Kaduna on Saturday, killing one person and injuring several others.
The trouble began when Shi’ites were marching in a parade to commemorate the annual Quds Day, and security agents stationed along main roadways in Kaduna and Zaria attempted to disperse the assembly.
However, the scene became violent immediately when members of the group allegedly refused to stop the parade.
Security agents fired tear gas and live gunfire at protestors, according to an eyewitness who requested anonymity, while other Shi’ites set fire to numerous vehicles in Zaria.
The IMN Amir in Kaduna, Aliyu Umar, who confirmed the incident, told DAILY POST that the annual Quds Day is a global event and commemorated even in western countries, but wondered why they are frequently haunted by security agents when marking the day.
He further added that the procession was peaceful and had tried to avoid the police who were already stationed in strategic positions to block them.
“Yet they trailed from behind and used teargas and live bullets on our members, leading to the death of one person.
“We have just held the Janazah prayers and nine sustained bullet wounds,” he said.
The Amir also alleged that the police arrested about eight members of the group.
He denied allegations that a police station was burnt and that the Shi’ites had set ablaze vehicles.
The Kaduna State Police Command Public Relations Officer, ASP Mohammed Jalige did not pick up his calls for comments.
