Islamic Movement says police shoot Shiite marchers

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria, whose members are known as Shiites claimed today that the police fired at its people marching peacefully in Kaduna metropolis to mark the International Quds Day.

The day is observed globally by Shiite muslims in solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine.

In a statement, the movement said many of its members were injured and arrested as a result of the police action.

This has not been confirmed by the police.

“A large contingent of the police in battle gear had been threateningly patrolling the streets of Kaduna even before the commencement of the march.

“Hardly had the peaceful march started when the armed policemen opened fire without warning, with tear gas and live ammunition indiscriminately. This led to pandemonium on the busy streets of the central area.

“They were seen thereafter mounting road blocks and emergency checkpoints and diverting traffic away from the central area.

“This year’s Quds procession has been marked everywhere in the country peacefully except in Kaduna, where the Governor is in the mood of spilling innocent citizens blood in this holy month of Ramadan”.