13 Worshippers Killed in Bandit Attack on Katsina Mosque

Tragedy struck in Katsina State on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, as armed bandits stormed a mosque in Unguwan Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area, killing 13 worshippers during early morning prayers.

According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers invaded the mosque during **Fajr prayer** and opened fire on the congregation. The assault is believed to have been a reprisal after community members recently ambushed and overpowered the bandits, rescuing kidnapped victims from Ruwan Sanyi village and seizing weapons and motorcycles.

Confirming the incident, the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, described the attack as a retaliatory strike.

“The Muslim members of the community were praying in the mosque during Fajr prayer when the criminal elements started shooting sporadically. This was in response to the community’s earlier resistance, where they killed several bandits, rescued victims, and seized arms,” Dr. Mu’azu told reporters.

He added that security forces, including the Nigerian Army and Police, have been deployed to the area to restore calm and pursue the perpetrators.

> “The Air Component Commander of the Forward Operating Base, along with security agencies, is already on the ground to clear the bandits. We know that during the rainy season, criminals hide under crops to carry out attacks. We are determined to bring them to justice,” he said.

The commissioner also commended the bravery of Unguwan Mantau residents, assuring them of government support in the fight against banditry.

The Katsina State Government extended condolences to the families of the victims and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening community security initiatives.