Tension has engulfed Rano Local Government Area of Kano State following violent protests that erupted on Monday after a young man, Abdullahi Musa, reportedly died while in police custody.

According to eyewitness accounts, Musa, who was arrested for allegedly violating a traffic rule, died during interrogation at the Rano Divisional Police Headquarters. Local residents claim that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), identified as Baba Ali, subjected the young man to severe beating, which ultimately resulted in his death.

"He was not a criminal. He was picked up for a traffic matter. People are angry because he died while in the custody of those meant to protect him," said a resident of the town who witnessed the aftermath of the incident.

News of Musa's death spread rapidly throughout the community, prompting local youths to march to the police station demanding answers. What initially began as a peaceful demonstration quickly escalated into violence when police officers allegedly opened fire in an attempt to disperse the growing crowd.

Two protesters were reportedly shot during the confrontation and are currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital. In retaliation, the enraged crowd hurled stones at the officers before eventually overpowering them and setting the police facility ablaze.

"We saw them dragging the DPO away after he was injured. Things had already gotten out of control at that point," an eyewitness recounted.

SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, spokesperson for the Kano State Police Command, has confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation into the matter has commenced. Authorities are yet to release further details about the circumstances surrounding Musa's death or the extent of damage to the police facility.

The incident highlights growing tensions between law enforcement agencies and local communities in Nigeria, where allegations of police brutality have sparked nationwide protests in recent years.

As of the time of reporting, the situation in Rano remains tense, with increased security presence in the area to prevent further escalation of violence.