Five operatives of the security outfit named Community Watch Corps (CWC) have been killed in a deadly ambush by bandits in Maharba Village, Matazu local government area of Katsina State.
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda on Friday led a high-level security delegation to the area for an on-the-spot assessment of the attack and to evaluate ongoing security efforts.
The slain personnel, including CWC Commander Mallam Sanusi, were reportedly on a reinforcement mission when they were ambushed at a stream crossing by about twenty (20) armed bandits riding motorcycles.
According to a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula, the attackers, who had concealed themselves in nearby mango trees, set the security team’s Hilux vehicle ablaze after the deadly assault.
He said that the charred remains of the vehicle were still smoldering when Governor Radda arrived at the scene.
Governor Radda was accompanied by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Danmusa; the State Commissioner of Police, Director of Department of State Services, Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir; and other key security officials.
Radda was led to the scene of the attack by the chairman of the local government, Alhaji Shamsudeen Sayaya.
While addressing journalists during the visit, Governor Radda condemned the attack, describing it as “a heartbreaking loss to the state,” and vowed that his administration would intensify efforts to secure all communities.
“We are here not just to assess the damage, but to ensure that such an attack never happens again. Our security architecture will be reviewed and reinforced. We owe it to these brave men and their families,” the Governor said
For his part, Dr. Danmusa explained that the visit was part of a broader security strategy to both understand the evolving nature of banditry in the state and formulate stronger counter measures.
“The state has witnessed both challenges and progress in the fight against banditry,” he said. “This visit is critical for planning and deploying new tactics to safeguard our communities, especially in high-risk areas like this.”
He urged residents to remain patient and prayerful, assuring them that the state government remains fully committed to restoring peace and stability.
Governor Radda also met with residents of the affected areas, offering condolences and reassurance.
The Governor further pledged continuous collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders to boost intelligence gathering and enhance operational response.
He concluded his visit with a solemn prayer for the souls of the fallen corps members and comfort for their families.
