Katsina State governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has pledged to intensify security strategies following a deadly ambush by armed bandits that claimed the lives of five Community Security Watch Corps members in Maharba village, Matazu Local Government Area.
Governor Radda, accompanied by top security officials, personally led a high-level delegation to the scene of the attack on Friday to conduct an on-the-spot assessment.
The visit comes in the wake of a brutal assault that saw bandits ambush a Hilux vehicle carrying the security team, setting it ablaze and killing all five occupants, including the commander, Mallam Sanusi.
Sanusi, who oversaw operations in Kusada, Kankia, and parts of Charanci LGAs, and his men were responding to intelligence reports on a suspected bandit movement when they were ambushed at a major stream crossing by about 20 armed assailants hiding in surrounding mango trees.
The governor’s team included the Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Muazu Danmusa; the State Commissioner of Police; Director of State Security Services; Chief of Staff Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir; and other senior government and security officials.
They were guided to the scene by Matazu Local Government Chairman, Alhaji Shamsudeen Muhammad Sayaya.
During the visit, Governor Radda also toured nearby communities to assess conditions and engage residents on the administration’s ongoing security efforts.
“The sacrifice of these brave men will not go in vain,” the Governor assured. “We are adopting enhanced and coordinated strategies with all relevant agencies to protect our citizens and ensure such tragedies do not repeat.”
Dr. Danmusa emphasized the government’s commitment to improving tactical responses, noting that while the state has recently faced increased attacks, it has also recorded significant successes through joint military efforts, particularly around the Ruwan Godiya axis.
“This visit was not only symbolic but strategic. It allows us to assess the situation first-hand and design more proactive measures,” Dr. Danmusa said.
He also called on residents to support the government’s efforts with prayers and patience, reaffirming that peace and stability remain top priorities for the Radda administration.
Governor Radda offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the slain security personnel, praying for God’s comfort and strength for the bereaved.
In a swift follow-up to the Maharba incident, Governor Radda has convened an emergency security meeting to review and reinforce strategic plans to safeguard lives and properties across Katsina State.
The meeting is currently being attended by Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal Jobe, Chief of Staff Abdulkadir Nasir Mamman, Principal Private Secretary Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji, chairmen of the 34 local government areas, officials of the Community Security Watch Corps (C-Watch), and other critical stakeholders.
The emergency session aims to accelerate security interventions, improve inter-agency coordination, and develop sustainable community-based strategies to combat rising threats from banditry and other criminal elements.
The meeting underscores the administration’s commitment to proactive governance and urgent response to emerging security challenges across the state.
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