ARMED bandits stormed a mosque in Unguwan Mantau, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, this morning, killing 13 worshippers during the dawn (Fajr) prayers.
According to the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, the deadly assault was a reprisal attack after local residents had earlier confronted the criminals, killing several of them and rescuing kidnapped victims from Ruwan Sanyi village.
The community had also seized motorcycles and rifles from the attackers during that confrontation.
In his statement, Mu’azu explained that the assailants opened fire inside the mosque while worshippers were praying, leaving multiple casualties behind.
He confirmed that security reinforcements, including the Nigerian Army, Air Force, and police units, have been deployed to restore calm and track down the perpetrators.
“The attack was carried out by criminal elements in retaliation for the brave resistance of the Unguwan Mantau community. Security agencies are now on ground to stabilize the area and pursue the culprits,” he said.
The Commissioner commended the courage of the residents while assuring that the state government remains committed to supporting community security initiatives.
He also extended condolences to the families of the victims and vowed that the killers would be brought to justice.
Katsina, like several states in northwestern Nigeria, continues to grapple with frequent banditry attacks that target rural communities, religious gatherings, and highways, often leaving behind a trail of deaths, kidnappings, and displacement.