- The Katsina State Police Command has confirmed a deadly attack by armed bandits in Matazu Local Government Area, resulting in the deaths of one police officer and two civilians.
- Security forces successfully repelled a follow-up attempt by the bandits to overrun the Musawa Police Division, preventing further casualties and restoring temporary order to the axis.
- Governor Dikko Radda has visited the affected Sayaya community to assess damages to health facilities and shops, directing an immediate reinforcement of security operatives in the area.
The Katsina State Police Command on Monday provided a somber update regarding a violent confrontation with suspected armed bandits in the Matazu Local Government Area.
Eko Hot Blog reports that according to the Command Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Abubakar Sadiq, the incident began on Sunday, April 5, 2026, when a large number of assailants blocked the Karadua–Musawa Road.
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The bandits opened fire on a passing Volkswagen Golf vehicle, tragically killing two civilian occupants on the spot.
In a swift reaction to the highway ambush, a combined team of Police, Military, Katsina State Community Watch Corps, and local vigilantes mobilized to the scene.
While the security forces managed to dislodge the bandits and evacuate the victims, the attackers reportedly regrouped for a more daring assault.
The bandits subsequently attempted to storm the Musawa Police Division, leading to a fierce gun battle. Officers on duty successfully held their ground and repelled the invasion, though one courageous officer lost his life in the line of duty during the exchange.
Commissioner of Police Ali Fage has since expressed his deep condolences to the families of the deceased civilians and the fallen officer.
To prevent a recurrence, the Commissioner has deployed additional operational assets to Matazu to fortify the region. Meanwhile, an intensive investigation and manhunt have been launched to track down and apprehend the perpetrators of the Sunday violence.
The gravity of the situation was further underscored by a visit from Governor Dikko Radda to Sayaya village on Sunday. The Governor personally inspected the Primary Health Care Centre and various local shops that were looted or damaged during the bandits’ incursion.
During his assessment, Radda met with residents to offer his sympathies and assured them of the government’s commitment to their safety.
By directing the deployment of more security personnel to Sayaya and surrounding towns, the state government aims to restore public confidence and curb the rising tide of insecurity in the rural communities.
