Katsina police dismisses reports of stampede deaths during palliative distribution

The Police Command in Katsina State has dismissed as false, the report making the rounds on social media that eight persons died in a stampede during the distribution of palliatives.

This clarification came in a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Abubakar Aliyu, on Thursday in Katsina.

“Katsina State Police Command is aware of the recent misinformation making the rounds on social media alleging the deaths of eight people at GRA Katsina as a result of a stampede.

“We wish to categorically clarify the misinformation in circulation,” he said.

Aliyu revealed that a former gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. Yakubu Lado-Danmarke, had distributed alms/palliatives to some members of the public at GRA Katsina on April 3, 2024.

The venue became heavily crowded, obstructing vehicular movement and public thoroughfare.

Despite the congestion, Aliyu assured that the command had made adequate deployment of personnel to ensure a seamless distribution process and the safety of the public.

He confirmed that no deaths occurred during the distribution of the palliatives.

The Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Abubakar-Musa, urged the public to rely on credible sources of information and official statements from the command for accurate and verified information.

He cautioned against sharing unverified information, especially on social media platforms, to maintain peace in the state.

“The command remains committed to providing timely updates and transparent information on matters concerning public safety and security,” Aliyu quoted the CP as saying.