Kano’s Islamic police crack down on public eating during Ramadan; 20 arrested

In Kano, a northern state of Nigeria, the Islamic police force, known as Hisbah, has arrested several Muslims for publicly eating and drinking at the start of Ramadan, a time when fasting from dawn to dusk is obligatory for adherents of Islam. Additionally, vendors selling food during fasting hours have also been taken into custody.

Mujahid Aminudeen, the deputy commander of Hisbah, confirmed that 20 individuals were arrested for not observing the fast, while five food sellers faced detention. He emphasized that the enforcement would continue throughout the holy month, which began on Saturday.

The arrested individuals have been charged in a Sharia court, where they will face legal consequences. Unlike last year, when violators were released after pledging to observe the fast, those detained this time will not be granted leniency.

Aminudeen revealed that Hisbah often receives tip-offs from concerned citizens who report individuals breaking the fast in public. Once alerted, officers swiftly move in to make arrests.

Beyond enforcing Ramadan observance, Hisbah officials have also detained individuals for having what they deemed as "inappropriate" hairstyles, wearing shorts above the knee, and for tricycle drivers who mixed male and female passengers.

Sharia law was officially introduced in Kano and 11 other northern Nigerian states over two decades ago to function alongside the country’s secular legal system. However, it applies only to Muslims and does not extend to the Christian minorities residing in these states.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, holds deep spiritual significance in Islam. It is believed to be the time when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Fasting during daylight hours is a fundamental practice in Islam and one of its Five Pillars.

The holy month, which spans either 29 or 30 days, is expected to conclude on March 30.