Three Killed, 60 Injured As Police, El-zakzaky Clash

Hassan Ibrahim, Kaduna - 19.09.2009

It was a bloody Friday in Zaria, Kaduna State, as a clash between the police and the Sheikh Zakzaky-led Muslim Brotherhood of Nigeria (Shiite) led to the death of three while over 60 people were injured.

Just last week, the group alleged that the police were planning an onslaught against them just like what happened to the Darul Islam in Niger State.

According to eyewitnesses, tension started shortly after a peaceful demonstration by the Shiite members in support of the people of Palestine.

“Members of the Shiite sect in Kaduna had earlier staged a peaceful demonstration in the state capital in solidarity with the people of Palestine. The two incidents, however, heightened tension in the state, resulting in the state government beefing up security by deploying military and police personnel under its anti-crime outfit, Operation Yaki, throughout the state, particularly in Zaria and Kaduna cities.

“The clash in Zaria between the Shiite and security agents broke out during a procession by the members of the Muslim sect in the town. The dead and injured people were allegedly caught in a cross-fire during the exchange of gunshots between the security agents and some alleged members of the Shiite sect.

“With the arrival of some armed policemen and soldiers, gunshots rent the atmosphere, resulting in a stampede and people scampering for safety in Kofar Doka and Tundun Wada areas of the city.

“The police got an intelligence report of an impending attack on them by the Shiite sect and then mobilised to secure the lives and property of the people of the area,” one of the witnesses said.




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