Kano’s Hisbah has launched another crackdown on alleged immoral activities, arresting 22 suspected crossdressers in different parts of the state.
The suspects — 10 women and 12 men — were picked up around Zoo Road, Court Road and neighbouring areas following complaints from residents, according to the Kano State Hisbah Board.
Deputy Commander General of the board, Dr Mujahid Aminuddeen, confirmed the arrests, saying some of those detained had reportedly travelled into Kano from other states.
Aminuddeen said the suspects allegedly admitted during questioning to engaging in hook-up activities and drug abuse.
He said investigations were still ongoing, adding that anyone found culpable would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The Hisbah boss also warned that the agency would not tolerate what it considers immoral practices in Kano, saying its operatives would intensify surveillance and enforcement across the state.
Earlier Crackdown
The latest arrests come months after the Hisbah Board stepped up its activities against alleged moral violations across Kano.
In March, operatives raided Stephrica Guest Palace in the Kureken Sani area of Kumbotso Local Government Area following complaints and intelligence from residents.
Several people, many of them teenagers, were reportedly arrested during the operation, while the hotel manager was also taken into custody.
Officials said the raid was part of efforts to tackle alleged gatherings involving underage persons and other activities deemed contrary to the state’s Shari’a-based moral regulations.
The Kano State Hisbah Board is a government-backed Islamic moral enforcement body charged with promoting compliance with Shari’a principles in the state. Its activities have, however, continued to generate controversy, particularly over its enforcement of rules relating to alcohol, prostitution, public conduct and other activities deemed immoral.
The board maintains that its operations are aimed at protecting public morality and maintaining social order in Kano.
