The death toll from Tuesday’s bandits’ attack on worshippers in Unguwar Mantau, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, has risen to 32, The Punch reports.
A government delegation led by the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Garba Faskari, visited the community on Wednesday to condole with the families of the victims.
Governor Dikko Radda, who is currently on medical leave, directed the delegation after consultations with the Acting Governor, Faruk Jobe.
Speaking during the visit, Faskari described the incident as a “deeply painful and heartbreaking tragedy,” assuring the community that the government was committed to strengthening security.
“Our hearts are with the families who lost their loved ones in this senseless attack. This administration remains committed to working with all security agencies to ensure justice is served and to prevent such tragedies in the future,” he said.
It was gathered that 32 people were killed while observing prayers, contrary to earlier reports of 13 deaths. The number of those kidnapped is still being verified.
A swift air interdiction by the Nigerian Air Force was said to have disrupted the bandits as they moved with captives, leading to the rescue of some victims, who are now receiving treatment in hospitals.
The state government said immediate support had been extended to the victims’ families, while a full assessment of the damages is underway.
Members of the delegation included the Commissioner for Internal Security, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu; senior aides on community watch and victims of banditry; the lawmaker representing Malumfashi Constituency; the Chairman of Malumfashi Local Government; and heads of security agencies in the state.