The Katsina State Police Command has confirmed a deadly bandit attack in Matazu Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of a police officer and two civilians.
The incident occurred along the Karadua–Musawa Road, where armed attackers reportedly opened fire on a moving vehicle. According to police spokesperson, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, security operatives later repelled a follow-up attack on a police facility in the area.
“On April 5, 2026, suspected armed bandits in large numbers, armed with dangerous weapons, blocked the Karadua–Musawa Road in Matazu Local Government Area, where they opened fire on an oncoming Volkswagen Golf vehicle, fatally shooting two persons.
“Upon receipt of the report, a joint team of operatives comprising the Police, Military, Katsina State Community Watch Corps, and local vigilantes swiftly mobilised to the scene, dislodged the assailants, and evacuated the victims to a nearby hospital.
“The bandits subsequently regrouped and attempted to attack the Musawa Police Division. However, the officers on duty repelled the attack, successfully foiling their attempt and restoring normalcy to the area. Regrettably, one police officer lost his life in the line of duty during the encounter.
“The Commissioner of Police, Ali Fage, has deployed additional operational assets to the area to strengthen security and prevent further attacks. An investigation has commenced to apprehend the perpetrators.
“The Commissioner of Police commiserates with the families of the deceased victims and the fallen officer. He urges members of the public to remain calm and continue to cooperate with security agencies as efforts are intensified to bring the culprits to justice.
“Further developments will be communicated in due course,” Sadiq said.
Governor Dikko Radda also visited the affected community, inspected damaged facilities, and assured residents of improved security measures.
