Bandits kill 13 in Katsina mosque

No fewer than 13 people have been killed during morning prayer at Unguwan Mantau in Malumfashi Local Government of Katsina State.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, August 19, 2025, was confirmed by the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Muazu.

Muazu said the incident occurred when bandits 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,” Muazu stated.

The commissioner disclosed that the attack was in retaliation for the community’s successful defence efforts two days ago.

Muazu said the people of Unguwan Mantau decided to lay an ambush against the bandits and killed many of them.

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Following the incident, the security agencies, he said, had been deployed to the area to restore normalcy.

Muazu added: “Air component commander of the Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Army, and Nigeria Police Force have already been deployed to clear those bandits.

“Because, during the rainy season, bandits hide under the crops to perpetrate their evil acts.

“We are working towards bringing the bandits to book.

“As 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 heartfelt condolences to the families affected.”

The commissioner also reaffirmed the Katsina State Government’s commitment to supporting community-based security initiatives while working to eliminate criminal elements from the state.

The Star