The Katsina State Government has deployed additional security personnel to Malumfashi Local Government Area following the killing of 13 worshippers by bandits during Fajr prayer on Tuesday.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the incident to newsmen in Katsina.
According to him, “The incident occurred when criminal elements launched a reprisal attack on the community. The Muslim members of the community were praying in the mosque during the Fajr prayer when the criminal elements started shooting sporadically in the mosque.”
He said the attack was in response to the community’s earlier resistance. “The attack was in retaliation for the community’s successful defence efforts two days earlier. The people of Unguwan Mantau decided to lay an ambush against the bandits and killed many of them. They rescued victims taken from Ruwan Sanyi village and seized three motorcycles and two AK-47s.”
Dr Mu’azu said security operatives had been drafted to restore peace in the area. “The security agencies are now on the ground in Unguwan Mantau to restore normalcy,” he added.
He explained that efforts were underway to fish out the perpetrators. “Air Component Commander of the Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Army, and Nigerian Police Force have already deployed to clear those bandits because during the rainy season, bandits hide under the crops to perpetrate their evil acts. We are working towards bringing the bandits to book.”
The Commissioner commended the courage of the locals, saying, “As government, we salute the gallantry and disposition of the people of Unguwar Mantau, and we are committed to fighting these bandits and ensuring safety across our communities.”
He said the government sympathises with the affected families and would continue to back community efforts in the war against banditry.
“The State Government extends heartfelt condolences to the families affected and reaffirms its unwavering support for community-based security initiatives while working to eliminate criminal elements from the region,” he said.
