bandits-enclave-raided-76-hostages-rescued-katsina/” title=”NAF Strikes Hard: Bandit Enclave Obliterated and 76 Hostages Heroically Rescued in …!”>mosque attackers” style=”display: block; margin: 0 auto 10px; max-width: 100%;” loading=”lazy” />
Katsina State Condemns Mosque Attackers, Labels Them as Cowards
The Katsina State Government has strongly denounced the recent assault on worshippers at a mosque in Malumfashi Local Government Area, branding the perpetrators as cowardly criminals. This condemnation came from the Acting Governor, Alhaji Faruq Lawal-Jobe, during a ceremony in Katsina on Saturday where eight newly acquired Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) were unveiled to bolster security efforts against banditry in the region.
Details of the Attack and Government Response
In the early hours of Tuesday, August 18, armed bandits launched a brutal attack on congregants praying at Unguwan Mantau mosque, resulting in multiple casualties. The incident has been described by officials as both tragic and deeply regrettable.
Governor Lawal-Jobe emphasized the state’s commitment to combating insecurity, highlighting significant investments in security infrastructure. “We have made substantial progress, securing four out of the eight most vulnerable local governments, including Jibia, Batsari, Kankara, and Danmusa,” he stated. “Our fight against banditry is far from over, and we will persist until peace is fully restored.”
Bandits’ Tactics and Community Resilience
The Acting Governor criticized the attackers for targeting innocent civilians during their morning prayers, calling such actions a display of cowardice. “Rather than facing their adversaries directly, these criminals chose to strike at vulnerable worshippers during a sacred time,” he remarked.
He also praised the local community’s bravery, noting that the villagers resisted multiple attempts by the bandits to infiltrate their area. “Their courage forced the assailants to resort to this heinous act,” Lawal-Jobe explained.
Collaboration with Federal Authorities and Future Plans
In addition to state-level initiatives, the Katsina Government has appealed to the Federal Government for enhanced support in tackling the bandit menace. The deployment of the new APCs is part of a broader strategy to improve mobility and protection for security personnel operating in high-risk zones.
Recent statistics from the Nigerian Security Tracker indicate a 15% increase in bandit-related incidents in the northwest region over the past year, underscoring the urgency of coordinated security responses.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Security and Community Safety
As Katsina intensifies its efforts, the government urges citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies. The introduction of advanced armored vehicles is expected to enhance rapid response capabilities, reducing the likelihood of future attacks on vulnerable communities.
Governor Lawal-Jobe concluded with a resolute message: “We will not be deterred by these cowardly acts. Our resolve to protect our people and restore peace remains unwavering.”
0 Comments