Katsina State is mourning after armed bandits stormed a mosque in Unguwan Mantau, Malumfashi Local Government Area, killing 13 people during early morning prayers on Tuesday.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, confirmed the heartbreaking incident in a statement, explaining that the gunmen opened fire on worshippers while they were observing the dawn (Fajr) prayer. The attack, he said, was a reprisal by the bandits after residents of the community had earlier resisted them and killed several during an ambush two days ago.
According to Muazu, the bandits launched their assault in the cover of darkness, taking advantage of the rainy season when they often hide under farmlands and crops to carry out attacks unnoticed. Security forces, including the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operating Base air component and the Police, have since been deployed to the area to restore calm and track down the perpetrators.
Despite the tragedy, the Katsina government praised the courage of the villagers for standing up to the gunmen and reiterated its support for community-based security efforts. “We salute the gallantry of Unguwan Mantau’s people and remain committed to defeating these criminal elements,” Dr. Muazu said.
The government extended its condolences to grieving families, assuring that justice will be pursued and that the safety of communities remains a top priority.
