Bandits Invade Mosque, Open Fire at Worshippers While Praying, Many Dead
- At least 13 worshippers were killed when bandits attacked a mosque in Unguwan Mantau, Katsina State, during early morning prayers
- Authorities described the assault as a reprisal after residents earlier ambushed the attackers, killed some of them, and rescued abducted victims
- The state government deployed security forces, assured residents of protection, and pledged justice for the victims and their families
At least 13 worshippers were gunned down during early morning prayers on Tuesday when armed bandits stormed a mosque in Unguwan Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The attackers opened fire on the congregation while they observed the dawn (Fajr) prayer, sending shockwaves through the rural settlement.
Source: Original
Commissioner terms dastard attack a reprisal
The Katsina state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the incident in a statement describing it as a reprisal assault by criminal gangs.
According to him, the community had previously resisted bandit activities and inflicted losses on the attackers.
“Two days ago, the people of Unguwan Mantau laid an ambush against the bandits, killed many of them, rescued abducted victims from Ruwan Sanyi village, and recovered three motorcycles and two AK-47 rifles,” he said.
Dr. Mu’azu explained that the bandits returned in retaliation, choosing the mosque as their target to maximize casualties. He noted that security forces were swiftly deployed to the area following the massacre.
“The Nigerian Army’s Forward Operating Base and the Nigerian Police have moved in to track down the perpetrators. During the rainy season, these bandits often hide under crops to launch attacks, but we are determined to bring them to justice,” he said.
Government lauds residents for their bravery
The commissioner paid tribute to the bravery of the residents, saying their defiance against the criminals was commendable. He assured the community that government would stand firmly with them and sustain ongoing efforts to restore peace across Katsina.
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“We salute the gallantry of the people of Unguwan Mantau and reaffirm our commitment to protecting all communities across the state,” he declared.
He also extended condolences to families who lost loved ones during the dawn attack.
“The government of Katsina State stands with the victims and their loved ones during this difficult time. We will not relent until peace is fully restored,” Dr. Mu’azu said.
Bandits kill over 35 in Zamfara
Earlier, Legit.ng reported at least 35 abductees were killed by kidnappers in Nigeria’s northern Zamfara State, despite families having paid substantial ransom sums for their release, a local government official told the BBC.
The mass abduction occurred in March when 56 individuals were seized from Banga village, located in the Kauran Namoda Local Government Area.
The attackers, described as armed criminal gangs commonly referred to as bandits, demanded a ransom of one million naira (approximately $655 or £485) per person, according to Nigerian media reports.
62 hostages escape as NAF airstrikes
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that sixty-two people held captive by armed bandits in Katsina State have regained freedom after military airstrikes forced their abductors to abandon their hideouts.
The operation, which took place on Saturday evening in Danmusa Local Government Area, targeted the camp of a notorious bandit leader, Muhammadu Fulani, whose group has been behind several violent attacks in the region.
Source: Legit.ng
