A QUIET dawn prayer in Katsina State turned into a scene of horror on Tuesday as gunmen suspected to be bandits stormed a mosque in Unguwan Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area, and opened fire on worshippers, killing at least 13 people.
The attack, which occurred during the Fajr (Subhi) prayers, has thrown the community into mourning and heightened fears of renewed violence in the state.
In a statement, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, described the massacre as a reprisal attack carried out by criminal gangs following a confrontation with local residents.
“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,” Mu’azu said.
He explained that the bandits, angered by their losses, returned to unleash violence on unarmed civilians gathered for prayers.
The commissioner confirmed that security forces, including the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operating Base and the Nigerian Police, have been deployed to the area 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 added.
While condemning the killings, Mu’azu commended the courage and bravery of the local community in standing up to the attackers.
“We salute the gallantry of the people of Unguwan Mantau and reaffirm our commitment to protecting all communities across the state,” he said.
The commissioner also extended the state government’s condolences to the bereaved families:
“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.”
Residents fear more reprisals as communities increasingly resist bandit attacks, raising concerns over escalating violence despite ongoing military operations in the region.
