Tension Grips Kaduna After NDLEA Officer Reportedly Ends Young Man’s Life

Tension engulfed the Barnawa area of Kaduna South LGA on Monday following the alleged killing of a young man by security operatives.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The incident triggered angry protests, leading to the shutdown of popular bars, restaurants, and other busy spots in the vibrant neighborhood.

According to eyewitnesses who spoke to Punch, the victim was reportedly hit by a stray bullet fired by an operative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) while pursuing a suspected drug dealer.

The shooting allegedly took place near the bustling Barnawa market junction, a hotspot for nightlife and commercial activities.

A resident, Musa, recounted:

“We were all here when NDLEA officers chased someone, telling him to stop. Then one of them fired a shot, and it hit an innocent passerby. The boy had nothing to do with the chase. He was completely innocent.”

Locals described the deceased as a “quiet and hardworking” member of the community.

In anger, youths took to the streets, blocking the Aliyu Makama-Barnawa road with burning tyres and chanting slogans.

Another protester, Aisha, fumed:

“We are tired of security agents killing our people for no reason. They claim to be after criminals, but innocent lives keep being lost. The government must act—this cannot be swept under the carpet.”

The protest, which began around 6 p.m., brought traffic to a standstill. Shop owners quickly locked up for fear of violence, and Barnawa’s usually lively streets fell silent as entertainment venues shut down.

Commercial tricycle rider, Bello, said he had to take detours to drop passengers:

“The road was blocked with tyres and stones. People were shouting, and at first, there was no security presence. Everyone was scared.”

Kaduna Police Command spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the incident via WhatsApp:

“Yes, we have received information about the incident, and the CP has ordered a full-scale investigation.”

By late evening, police patrol vans were deployed to restore order. While some protesters dispersed, others vowed to return if swift action was not taken.

At press time, the Kaduna State Government had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.