Katsina State government has mobilised more security forces following the tragic attack by bandits killing 13 worshipers in a mosque at a wee hour on Tuesday at the Malumfashi Local Government Area of the state.

The Punch learnt that the bandits who were on a reprisal attack shot at the worshippers at Unguwan Mantau community, leaving 13 dead.

The State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu?azu, told journalists on Tuesday that the state government announced immediate security reinforcements and support measures following a tragic incident.

According to him, ?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.

?The attack was in retaliation for the community?s successful defence efforts two days earlier. The people of Unguwan Mantau decided to lay an ambush against the bandits and killed many of them. They rescued victims taken from Ruwan Sanyi village and seized 3 motorcycles and 2 AK-47s.

?The security agencies are now on the ground in Unguwan Muntau to restore normalcy.

?Air component commander of the Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Army, and Nigerian Police Force have already 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 and 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 and reaffirms its unwavering support for community-based security initiatives while working to eliminate criminal elements from the region.? (PUNCH)

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