Four people have been confirmed dead and at least 18 others injured following a stampede during the distribution of Ramadan Zakkat (alms) in Katsina metropolis.
The tragic incident occurred at about 9:00 p.m. on February 26 at the residence of Alhaji Dahiru Usman Sarki in Kofar Guga Quarters, where large numbers of residents had gathered to receive annual Ramadan charity.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the situation turned chaotic when some individuals reportedly forced their way into the compound, triggering a stampede among the crowd.
Security personnel led by the Divisional Police Officer of the Central Police Station, Katsina, responded promptly and restored order at the scene.
Eighteen injured victims were taken to the General Hospital Katsina for treatment, while four persons were later confirmed dead by medical authorities. The deceased were identified as Bilkisu Mamman (40) of Kerau Quarters, Ihsan Musbahu (40) of Abattoir Quarters, Aisha Sani (16) of Kofar Sauri Quarters, and Salamatu Kabir (45) of Sabuwar Unguwa Quarters.
One of the injured victims, Hafsat Zubairu (15) from Masanawa Quarters, was subsequently referred to the Federal Teaching Hospital for further medical attention.
Police authorities have invited the organisers of the Zakkat distribution for questioning as investigations into the incident continue.
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