No fewer than four persons were killed in a stampede during the distribution of annual Ramadan alms at Kofar-Guga quarters, Katsina, the state police said.

The state police command said this in a statement by its spokesperson, DSP Aliyu Abubakar, on Sunday in Katsina.

“The police command in Katsina regrets to report a stampede incident that occurred during the distribution of annual Ramadan alms at Kofar-Guga quarters, resulting in several people sustaining injuries,” he said.

He said that at about 9:00 p.m. on February 26, the Central Police Station received a distress call about a large crowd gathered at the residence of a philanthropist in the Kofar-Guga quarters, Katsina, which led to a stampede.

“Upon receipt of the report, promptly, a team of policemen responded to the scene. The rescuers rushed the victims to the nearest hospital for medical attention.

“Unfortunately, four of the injured later succumbed to their injuries,” Mr Abubakar said.

The state commissioner of police, Bello Shehu, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery, as he directed further investigation and the necessary measures to prevent future occurrences.

He, however, said the command was calling on individuals who wish to distribute alms to the public to notify the command for adequate security coverage, to ensure the safety of lives and property, and to maintain orderliness during such events.

(NAN)