15-Year-Old Killed in Violent Gang Clash in Minna, Niger State; Five Suspects Arrested
15-year-old suspected gang member, identified as Saidu Udu, was killed during a violent confrontation between rival groups in Minna, the capital of Niger State. The deadly clash, which took place in the Gurgudu area of Maitumbi, has left the community in shock, with the local police confirming the death and the arrest of several suspects.
According to a statement from the Niger State Police Command, the altercation broke out around 11:30 a.m. when hoodlums from two rival factions, one from Gurgudu and the other from Kwari-Berger, clashed in a bloody confrontation. The clash reportedly involved more than 50 individuals, escalating into violence that resulted in the fatal stabbing of Saidu Udu, a 15-year-old resident of Gurgudu.
The police were swift to respond to the scene, dispatching a patrol team from the Maitumbi Division. However, by the time law enforcement arrived, the attackers had already dispersed, leaving behind only the victim’s lifeless body. The injured young man was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was later confirmed dead. His death has sparked outrage in the community, with many demanding justice for the senseless loss of a young life.
The police spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, provided further details in a WhatsApp message to NEW DAILY PRIME, confirming that the altercation was the result of a dispute between the rival groups. “On December 21, 2024, at approximately 11:30 a.m., miscreants from the Gurgudu area of Maitumbi and Kwari-Berger engaged in a violent confrontation that led to the death of Saidu Udu, 15, from Gurgudu. A police patrol team was dispatched to the scene, but the hoodlums had already fled. The victim was taken to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead.”
Following the tragic event, the police conducted a thorough follow-up operation in the area, which led to the arrest of five individuals who were attempting to flee the scene of the crime. These suspects are currently undergoing investigation, and the police are actively working to apprehend the other individuals involved in the violent clash. Authorities have assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The violent confrontation is believed to have been sparked by a disagreement over the distribution of money, allegedly given to the gang members by an unidentified benefactor. Sources suggest that the gangs were fighting over their share of the Christmas funds, which may have triggered the deadly altercation. As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on identifying the individuals behind the funding of the gangs, as well as tracking down any remaining suspects.
This tragic incident highlights the growing concerns over gang-related violence in parts of Niger State, where clashes between rival groups have become more frequent in recent months. The death of Saidu Udu has raised alarm in the local community, with residents calling for stronger action to curb gang violence and protect the safety of young people.
As the investigation unfolds, the Niger State Police Command is urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report any information that could help in the apprehension of the remaining suspects. The authorities have also emphasized the need for greater community involvement in addressing the root causes of gang violence, particularly among the youth, who are often lured into criminal activities.
