Kano Hisbah Arrests 25 Residents For ‘Eating, Selling Food During Fasting Hours’
The Kano Hisbah Board has reported the arrest of several Muslims for allegedly consuming food and beverages, as well as selling food in public during designated fasting hours.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam and is mandatory for all Muslims.
Nevertheless, individuals who are ill, pregnant, traveling, nursing, or experiencing menstruation are allowed to refrain from fasting, with the expectation that they will compensate for the missed days later. Additionally, elderly individuals who are unable to fast are also exempt from this obligation.
Mujahideen Abubakar, the deputy commander general of operations for the board, informed the BBC that 25 individuals have been apprehended.
He indicated that the enforcement operation, which commenced on Saturday, will persist until the conclusion of the month.
“It is crucial to emphasize that our focus is not on non-Muslims; any form of disrespect towards Ramadan will not be tolerated,” he stated.
“It is disheartening to witness adult Muslims publicly eating and drinking during such a sacred month designated for fasting. We will not allow this behavior, which is why we have taken action to make arrests.
“Of the arrests, 20 individuals were detained for not observing the fast, while five were apprehended for selling food.
“We receive numerous complaints from the public expressing outrage upon witnessing individuals eating in public, prompting us to respond swiftly to make arrests.”
Abubakar confirmed that all 25 individuals have been charged in a Sharia court and will face appropriate penalties.
The Kano Hisbah Board is tasked with upholding moral standards in accordance with Islamic law within the state. The agency is recognized for various initiatives, including the destruction of alcoholic beverages, the apprehension of unmarried couples found together in hotels, and the prohibition of mannequins in retail establishments.
