By Bello Nuratu
A 25-year-old man is in police custody in Kano after his mother’s courageous decision to expose his alleged possession of an illegal firearm triggered a violent attack inside their home.
The Kano State Police Command said the suspect, Ididiong James, was arrested following a domestic incident in the Panshekara area, where he allegedly assaulted his mother after she discovered a loaded pistol hidden in his bag and refused to return it to him.
According to a police account released on Wednesday, officers attached to the Panshekara Division responded to an emergency call on the evening of January 25, 2026. On arrival, they found that the woman had been severely beaten, while the suspect had fled the scene.
The mother reportedly handed over the object at the centre of the assault—an English Beretta pistol containing eight rounds of live ammunition—explaining that she had discovered it while searching her son’s belongings. She told police she became alarmed by what she described as a sudden and troubling change in his behaviour after he returned from New Year celebrations.
Investigations revealed that her refusal to give back the weapon sparked the attack, as she chose to alert authorities rather than shield her son from the law.
Police later tracked James to his hideout and arrested him without further incident. He is currently being held pending further investigation and possible prosecution.
Commending the woman’s actions, the Commissioner of Police in Kano State, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, described her response as an act of rare bravery that may have prevented a far more serious crime.
“The actions of this mother are commendable,” Bakori said. “She placed the safety of the community above personal and family considerations. Parents and guardians must pay close attention to the activities of their children and promptly report anything suspicious.”
The police command reiterated its call for public vigilance, urging residents to cooperate with law enforcement by reporting suspicious movements, illegal arms, or violent behaviour to the nearest police station.
Authorities say the case underscores the critical role families play in curbing the spread of illegal weapons and preventing violent crime before it spills into the wider community.