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. ”
Thirteen worshippers were killed early Tuesday when bandits attacked a mosque in Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State. The assault occurred in Unguwan Mantau community during dawn (Fajr) prayers.
State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the killings, describing the incident as a reprisal. “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,” he said.
Authorities said the attack followed an earlier ambush by residents, who had repelled bandits two days before, rescuing kidnapped victims and seizing motorcycles and weapons.
Security reinforcements, including army and police units, have been deployed to restore calm. “We salute the gallantry and disposition of the people of Unguwar Mantau, and we are committed to fighting these bandits,” Mu’azu added, while extending condolences to victims’ families.