28th April, 2024
By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano
Police in Kano have arrested the owner of collapsed building Kuntau, Gwale Local Government Area, Kano, that killed three persons and injured two people.
A statement by Kano state Police Command spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa indicated that the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mohammed Usaini Gumel ordered the arrest of the property owner for questioning and discreet investigation into the tragic incident.
Kiyawa stated that: “On 26 April, 2024, the State Police Command’s emergency lines responded to the distress call on the pathetic incident of a two-storey building under construction at Kuntau area of Gwale Local Government Area, Kano State had collapsed and some workers got trapped.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, Mr. Mohammed Usaini Gumel, directed the immediate deployment of the commands tactical teams to secure the scene, rescue the victims, liaise with the relevant emergency workers, other security agencies personnel including Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA), to take full control.
“There was rapid response by the rescue teams and security teams that swung into action that led to recovery of five victims out of the debris who were rushed to Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital Kano.”
The statement added that: “Unfortunately, three bodies were certified dead and two by the on-call pathologist while those with life-threatening injuries were admitted and are currently responding to treatment.
” Interim police investigation shows lack of quality in the building texture and without the necessary approvals of the State Government.
“As a result, the property owner is currently under questioning for the crimes and violation of the extant laws and deliberate non compliance with building regulations.
“The police command is at this juncture assuring the public that at the conclusion of its investigation, the property owner will be charged to court for prosecution for justice to be served.
“Finally, the Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Usaini Gumel, is showing the heartfelt expression to the good people of the State for the prompt report of the incident without which those rescued alive wouldn’t have been possible.
“Furthermore, the Commissioner of Police also commended the combined rescue and security teams for the sacrifices and timely manner to which they provided the required intervention.”