Katsina State Government has said that the death toll from the attack by bandits on worshippers at a mosque in the Malumfashi Local Government Area of the state has increased to 32.
The Media Directorate of the government made this disclosure in a statement following a visit by a delegation led by the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Faskari, to the Unguwar Mantau community.
DAILY POST reports that the delegation was received in Karfi town by the village head and the relatives of the deceased.
“During the condolence visit, it was confirmed that 32 people were killed while observing prayers. The number of those kidnapped is still being verified, as a swift air interdiction by the Nigerian Air Force disrupted the bandits while they were moving with captives.
“In the ensuing confusion, some victims scattered in different directions, while others were rescued and are now receiving treatment in hospitals,” the statement said.
The statement further said that Governor Dikko Radda, who is currently on medical leave, immediately consulted with the Acting Governor, Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, on the urgent need to dispatch a high-powered government delegation to commiserate with the bereaved families and the affected community, in a swift response to the tragic attack.
Described the attack as a deeply painful and heartbreaking tragedy, the SSG assured the community that the government would not relent in its efforts to strengthen security and restore lasting peace.
“Our hearts are with the families who lost their loved ones in this senseless attack. This administration remains committed to working with all security agencies to ensure justice is served and to prevent such tragedies in the future,” he said.
