The Kano State Hisbah Board has revealed that more than 600 residents were arrested during the recent Sallah celebrations as part of a widespread morality enforcement operation across the state.
The board also announced that 66 children reported missing during the festivities were successfully reunited with their families.
Speaking on Monday, the Deputy Commander-General, Dr. Mujahiddin Aminuddin, said the arrests were made over various alleged offences, including indecent dressing and actions considered contrary to Islamic and cultural norms.
He noted that thousands of Hisbah personnel were deployed across Kano to monitor activities and ensure compliance with societal expectations throughout the festive period.
A breakdown of the arrests showed that 275 young men were detained for what was described as “indecent haircuts,” 85 tricycle operators were accused of carrying female passengers beside them, 21 individuals were found wearing shorts, and 286 women were arrested over alleged indecent dressing.
Aminuddin further disclosed that a local government official was apprehended in a hotel with minors without parental consent. The children were later returned to their families after their parents were contacted.
Other incidents handled during the operation included a couple allegedly involved in violent conduct, a young man accused of facilitating immoral activities by providing lodging, and a trader reportedly found with weapons linked to thuggery.
The board also said it intervened in a case involving a traditional marriage conducted without the consent of the bride’s family, describing the act as unlawful.
Additionally, authorities disrupted a planned youth gathering in the Sabon Gari area, citing concerns that such events often violate the moral standards the agency is mandated to enforce.
Aminuddin stressed that the Sallah period should focus on spiritual reflection, warning residents and business owners against engaging in activities that contradict Kano’s religious and cultural values.
He urged the public to support the board by reporting suspicious activities, adding that efforts to “sanitise” the state would continue.
