The Katsina State Police Command has launched an investigation into the deaths of four people following a stampede during a Ramadan alms-giving event in Kofar Guga Quarters.
Police spokesperson Aliyu Abubakar said in a statement Sunday that the incident occurred Feb. 26, 2026.
According to the statement, officers received a distress call around 9 p.m. reporting that a large crowd had gathered at the residence of philanthropist Dahiru Usman Sarki, triggering a stampede.
Police responded to the scene and rushed victims to a nearby hospital for treatment. Four of the injured later died, Abubakar said.
Several others sustained injuries and are receiving medical care.
The Commissioner of Police, Bello Shehu, expressed condolences to the families of the victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He also ordered a full investigation and directed measures to prevent a recurrence.
The command urged philanthropists and organizations planning similar events to notify authorities in advance to ensure adequate security and crowd control.
The incident adds to growing concerns over safety at large public charity events. In December 2024, at least 67 people were reported killed in separate stampedes in Oyo, Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory during food distribution and children’s events, prompting renewed calls for improved crowd management.
