The Islamic police, known as Hisbah, in Nigeria’s northern state of Kano, detained 11 Muslims for breaking the Ramadan fast by eating.

Hisbah spokesperson Lawal Fagge reported the arrest of 10 men near markets and a female groundnut vendor caught eating from her wares. The arrests followed tips from onlookers.

“We got 11 persons on Tuesday including a lady selling groundnuts who was seen eating from her wares, and some persons alerted us,”Fagge said.

“The other 10 were men and were arrested across the city especially close to markets where a lot of activities happen.”

The 11 accused were later absolved of their crimes after vowing to abstain from food or drink. Additionally, their families were requested to ensure they observe the fast.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It has a special significance in Islam.

It is during this month that Muslims believe the first verses of the Quran – Islam’s holy book – were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which lay the basis for how Muslims are required to live their lives. The fast is observed during daylight hours.

This year, Ramadan is expected to last 30 days, with fasting starting on Monday 11 March and predicted to end on Tuesday 9 April.