Blood flows in Katsina Mosque

• Bandits massacre 13 worshippers

From Agaju Madugba, Katsina

Bandits, in the early hours of yesterday, stormed the Unguwan Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government, Katsina State, killing 13 worshippers in the mosque.

The victims were in prayer when they were sent to their early graves.

The Katsina State government confirmed the development in a statement by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu.

The statement suggested that the attack might be a retaliatory effort over a recent incident when “the people of Unguwan Mantau, decided to lay an ambush on the bandits and killed many of them and seized motorcycles and guns belonging to the bandits.

“The Katsina state government has announced immediate security reinforcements and support measures following a tragic incident in the Unguwan Mantau community, Malumfashi LG, where 13 residents lost their lives during morning prayers.

“The incident occurred when criminal elements launched a reprisal attack on the community. The Muslim members of the community were praying in the mosque during the Fajr prayer when the criminal element started shooting sporadically in the mosque.

“The attack was in retaliation for the community’s successful defence efforts two days earlier.

“The security agencies are now on the ground in Unguwan Muntau to restore normalcy.

“Air component Commander of the Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Army, and  Nigeria Police Force have already been deployed to clear those bandits. During the rainy season, bandits hide under the crops to perpetrate their evil acts. We are working towards bringing the bandits to book.

“As a government, we salute the gallantry disposition of the people of Unguwar Mantau, and we are committed to fighting these bandits and ensuring safety across our communities.

“The state government extends its heartfelt condolences to the families affected and reaffirms its unwavering support for community-based security initiatives, while working to eliminate criminal elements from the region.”