Police in Kaduna have embarked on thorough investigation into a discharge from a Dane gun that killed a 12-year old boy and wounded seven others in what is believed to be a shooting competition in Abakpa area of Kaduna city.
However, the police said assessments were ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident, promising to communicate further developments to the public.
A statement on Tuesday – today, April 22 – by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of Kaduna Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, said: “On 22nd April 2025 at about 0830hrs, 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, Garrison Commander, State Director, Department of State Services (DSS) and the chairman Kaduna North Local Government have all visited the scene and a thorough on-site assessment was carried out. Contrary to initial reports, experts confirmed that the incident was not an explosion. Preliminary investigations conducted by Officer in charge of 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.
“Further investigations and assessments are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. The Police Command assures the public that further developments will be promptly and transparently communicated.
“The Command extends its deepest condolences.”
