Kano police crush traditional culture to fight crime

By Abubakar Idris

The Kano State Police Command has reaffirmed the state government’s suspension of the annual cultural event known as Tashe.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that traditionally, Tashe begins on the 10th day of Ramadan and involves street performances, music, and cultural displays.

However, authorities argue that criminals have hijacked the event, using it as a cover to commit robberies and violent attacks.

In a statement released on March 14, 2025, the police warned that anyone caught violating the ban would be arrested and prosecuted.

The Command stated that the decision was necessary to protect the lives and properties of Kano residents.

Many locals, however, believe that banning an age-old cultural practice is an extreme measure that does not address the root causes of crime.

Some critics argue that instead of banning Tashe, the police should focus on tackling the real sources of insecurity.

Stakeholders meet to curb rising thuggery

On the same day, the Kano State Police Command held a stakeholders’ meeting to discuss strategies for addressing the growing menace of thuggery.

The meeting focused on curbing violent street gangs, commonly referred to as Fadan Yan Daba, in several troubled areas.

Community leaders, ward heads, and vigilante groups from Yakasai, Zage, Zango, Rimi, and surrounding communities participated in the discussions.

During the meeting, stakeholders identified illicit drug use as a major driver of youth involvement in thuggery.

They agreed on the need for stronger community-police collaboration, intelligence gathering, and targeted interventions.

Local leaders expressed concerns that without addressing drug abuse and unemployment, any crackdown on thuggery would be ineffective.

Some participants also suggested that youth engagement programs could help divert young people from crime and violence.

The meeting ended with a resolution to strengthen cooperation between law enforcement and local communities to combat street violence.

Police step up patrols and surveillance

Following the meeting, the Commissioner of Police directed all Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to increase security patrols in high-risk areas.

Police teams have been instructed to conduct regular surveillance and respond swiftly to any reports of criminal activities.

The Command also urged the public to be proactive in reporting suspicious movements or individuals linked to thuggery.

To make it easier for residents to contact the police, the Command released emergency phone numbers:

• 08032419754
• 08123821575
• 09029292926

Authorities assured residents that all reports would be treated confidentially, and swift action would be taken against offenders.

Mixed reactions to the crackdown

The police crackdown on Tashe and thuggery has sparked mixed reactions among Kano residents.

While some people support the move, arguing that public safety must come first, others believe it is an attack on cultural heritage.

Some cultural activists accuse the government of suppressing traditions instead of addressing the real causes of crime.

They argue that criminals should be dealt with individually rather than banning a festival that has been part of Kano’s history for generations.

A local community leader, who wished to remain anonymous, said banning Tashe would not stop crime.

According to him, “If Tashe is the problem, why do we still have thuggery outside the Ramadan period?”

He urged the government to focus on economic empowerment and education as long-term solutions to Kano’s crime problem.

Others, however, support the suspension, saying that Tashe has lost its original purpose and is now dominated by criminal gangs.

A resident of Zage, who identified himself as Musa, described how last year’s Tashe festival turned into a nightmare for his family.

“My younger brother was attacked by thugs during Tashe last year, and they took his phone and money,” he recalled.

He believes the police are right to ban the event if it can no longer be celebrated peacefully.

Kano police assure residents of security

Despite the controversy, the Kano State Police Command insists that its primary duty is to protect lives and properties.

The Command assured residents that it remains committed to fighting crime and maintaining peace in the state.

Authorities also encouraged the community to support law enforcement by reporting criminals and suspicious activities.

The police expressed gratitude for the cooperation of Kano residents and promised to sustain efforts to rid the state of thuggery.

The enforcement of the Tashe ban and increased security measures signal a firm stance against lawlessness in Kano.

With continuous collaboration between law enforcement and local communities, authorities believe Kano can achieve lasting peace and stability.

The police urged residents to prioritize security over sentiment, emphasizing that a safer Kano is in everyone’s best interest.

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