Gunmen attack mosque in Katsina, kill 13 worshippers

The attack occurred on Tuesday morning as worshippers
observed Fajr prayer.

In a statement, Nasir Mu’azu, commissioner for internal
security and home affairs in Katsina, said the killing was a reprisal after
community members ambushed and lynched several bandits two days ago.

Mu’azu said villages had seized three motorcycles, 2 AK-47
rifles, and rescued victims kidnapped by the bandits from Ruwan Sanyi village.

“The incident occurred when criminal elements launched a
reprisal attack on the community,” the statement reads.

“The Muslim members of the community were praying in the
mosque during the Fajr prayer when the criminal elements started shooting
sporadically in the mosque.

“The security agencies are now on the ground in Unguwan
Mantau to restore normalcy.

“Air component commander of the Forward Operating Base,
Nigerian Army, and Nigerian Police Force have already deployed to clear out
those bandits.

“As government, we salute the gallantry disposition of the
people of Unguwan 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 and reaffirms its unwavering support for community-based
security initiatives while working to eliminate criminal elements from the
region.”