Katsina Mosque Attack claims 13 lives in Unguwan Mantau as bandits storm worshippers during dawn prayers in a deadly reprisal assault

Katsina Mosque Attack has left the Unguwan Mantau community in Malumfashi Local Government Area devastated after armed bandits stormed a mosque during dawn prayers on Tuesday, killing 13 worshippers in cold blood.

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The Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, confirmed the massacre, describing it as a reprisal assault by the assailants.

“The Muslim members of the community were praying in the mosque during the Fajr prayer when the criminal elements started shooting sporadically,” Muazu said.

According to him, the attack was carried out in retaliation after villagers of Unguwan Mantau ambushed and killed several bandits two days earlier.

“The incident occurred when criminal elements launched a reprisal attack on the community,” he added.

Security forces have since been deployed to restore calm. “The Air Component Commander of the Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Army, and the Nigerian Police Force have already been deployed to clear those bandits,” Muazu disclosed.

The commissioner further noted that bandits often exploit the rainy season to hide under crops, making detection difficult. “We are working towards bringing the bandits to book,” he stressed.

While condemning the killings, Muazu commended the resilience of the villagers. “As government, we salute the gallantry disposition of the people of Unguwan Mantau, and we are committed to fighting these bandits and ensuring safety across our communities,” he said.

The state government extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured continuous support for community-based security initiatives aimed at tackling banditry.

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The Katsina Mosque Attack serves as a grim reminder of the dangers rural communities face, even in places of worship, as insecurity continues to plague northern Nigeria.