By Muhammad Mamman
Armed bandits stormed a mosque in Unguwan Mantau, a farming community in Malumfashi Local Government Area, Katsina State, killing 13 worshippers during the early morning Fajr prayer. The attack, described as a vicious reprisal, followed a bold community ambush two days earlier, where villagers killed several bandits, freed hostages from Ruwan Sanyi village, and seized weapons, including three motorcycles and two AK-47 rifles.
Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the tragic death toll in a Tuesday statement. “The criminals opened fire indiscriminately inside the mosque,” he said, linking the attack to the community’s recent defensive success against the bandits.
Security forces, including soldiers, police, and air force units from the Forward Operating Base, have been deployed to stabilize the area. “During the rainy season, bandits exploit tall crops to conceal their attacks,” Mu’azu noted. “We are intensifying efforts to bring these criminals to justice.”
The state government praised the “gallantry” of Unguwan Mantau residents while pledging continued support for community-led defense initiatives. Reinforcements are being mobilized to safeguard vulnerable areas, and authorities have extended condolences to the victims’ families, reaffirming their commitment to eradicating banditry in the region.
This incident follows another deadly attack just three days ago in Malumfashi, where a local official was killed and a former council vice chairman, Nasiru Dayi, was abducted. Despite ongoing military operations, including airstrikes on bandit hideouts across multiple states, residents report persistent attacks, particularly during the rainy season when dense crops provide cover for assailants.
The Katsina State government vows to strengthen security measures and urges communities to collaborate with law enforcement to restore peace. “We will not rest until these perpetrators are brought to justice,” Mu’azu declared.
