Tahajjud prayers turn bloody: Police arrest 12 over mosque attack

The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested 12 suspects in connection with a deadly attack on worshippers observing Tahajjud (midnight) prayers in Rigasa, Kaduna.

According to the command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, the police received a distress call around 2:00 a.m. on March 21 from a concerned citizen.

The caller reported that a group of armed hoodlums had mobilized from Malalin Gabas, Tudun Wada, Rafin Guza, and Unguwar Baduko to attack worshippers at Layin Bilya, Makwa Road.

Responding swiftly, the Divisional Police Officer led a team of officers, accompanied by the Commander of the Civilian Joint Task Force, to the scene in an attempt to apprehend the attackers.

However, by the time security operatives arrived, the assailants had already stabbed a 23-year-old worshipper, Usman Mohammad.

Mohammad was rushed to the hospital for urgent medical attention but succumbed to his injuries and was later confirmed dead by doctors.

The police subsequently arrested 12 suspects, who reportedly confessed to their involvement in the attack. Several weapons were also recovered from them.

Hassan said an investigation is ongoing to uncover the full details of the incident and ensure justice is served.

In response to the attack, the police command has intensified security deployments across strategic areas in the state, particularly around mosques where such prayers are held.

The command urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to aid crime prevention efforts.

It also issued a stern warning to criminal elements, stating that anyone caught engaging in such violent acts would face the full force of the law.