KATSINA, Nigeria – At least 13 people were killed on Tuesday when armed men stormed a mosque in Unguwan Mantau, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, opening fire on worshippers during dawn (Fajr) prayers. Authorities described the incident as a reprisal attack.
According to the Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, the violence followed an earlier confrontation in Ruwan Sanyi village where residents ambushed suspected bandits, killing several, freeing abducted victims, and seizing three motorcycles along with two AK-47 rifles.
The mosque assault, officials said, was retaliation for that operation.
Survivors reported scenes of panic as attackers shot indiscriminately inside the prayer hall.
In response, the Katsina State Government has deployed additional security forces to stabilise the area. “The air component commander of the Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Army, and the Nigerian Police Force have already been deployed to clear those bandits because during the rainy season, they hide under crops to perpetrate their acts,” said Dr Nasir Mu’azu, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs.
Dr Mu’azu praised the courage of residents who resisted banditry but urged communities to work closely with security agencies. “We remain committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring safety across our communities,” he assured.
The state government extended condolences to the families of the victims and reaffirmed its determination to dismantle criminal networks threatening rural communities.
