The Kano State Police Command has expressed deep concern over the rising trend of criminal activities among youths in the state, utilising the cultural tradition of Ramadan Tashe as a cover. The police have taken decisive measures to address this issue and ensure that individuals or groups intending to exploit the culture for criminal purposes are dealt with accordingly.

According to the State Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Usaini Gumel, a careful analysis of the crime pattern in the state revealed that some youths were taking advantage of the traditional “Tashe” culture to create insecurity. They would conceal weapons and orchestrate attacks on unsuspecting individuals, robbing them of their belongings.

“We discovered three months ago that some youths were engaging in criminal activities by organising fights and ambushing people to steal their valuables,” Gumel stated.

To tackle this challenge and maintain peace throughout the state, the Police Command has implemented a robust security strategy. Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical and Operational Commanders have been instructed to identify and engage with influential individuals, including youth leaders involved in organizing “Tashe” events. They will closely monitor these gatherings to prevent any potential violence.

“Furthermore, the Police Command has intensified surveillance and patrols in areas where youth tend to exploit the Tashe culture for illicit activities,” Gumel added.

The Police Chief also mentioned that intelligence units have heightened their vigilance in gathering and acting upon relevant information to proactively counter emerging security threats.

“These proactive measures will enable the Police Command to promptly respond to early warning signs of potential insecurity and maintain peace and order during and after the Ramadan period,” he emphasized.

Additionally, the Police Command has initiated discussions with community leaders, religious authorities, and influential youth leaders to address the issue of certain youths misusing the “Tashe” tradition to promote insecurity during Ramadan.