KATSINA: Katsina State has seen a tragic loss of lives among its security forces, with more than 130 personnel killed in the ongoing fight against banditry over the past two years.
This grim toll includes over 100 members of the Katsina Community Watch Corps and more than 30 police officers, alongside an unspecified number of soldiers who have also fallen in the line of duty.
Despite persistent efforts to curb the violence, four local government areas—Faskari, Kankara, Safana, and Matazu—continue to experience frequent attacks, according to the Katsina State Government.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasiru Mu’azu who disclosed this in a statement, urged residents to remain calm and united, emphasizing the importance of relying on verified information rather than succumbing to fear and misinformation often spread on social media.
Dr Mu’azu however disclosed that the state government has made considerable progress in combating banditry since Governor Dikko Umaru Radda took office in 2023.
“At that time, 24 local government areas were grappling with insecurity”. Now, he stated, 11 of these LGAs are “fully stabilized” and largely free from attacks.
These include Jibia, Batsari, Danmusa, Katsina, Batagarawa, Charanchi, Bindawa, Ingawa, Kafur, Danja, and Kusada.
Furthermore, Dr Mu’azu identified nine other areas as “improved LGAs with few remote pockets of insecurity.” These are Malumfashi, Kurfi, Dutsinma, Kankia, Musawa, Bakori, Funtua, Sabuwa, and Dandume.
The Internal Security commissioner expressed concern over what he described as “deliberate attempts by some individuals to create panic and incite fear among residents” through the dissemination of false information online. He noted that such narratives aim to “downplay the significant progress made so far.”
Dr. Mu’azu reiterated Governor Radda’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace, emphasizing that the Governor remained actively engaged with security stakeholders even during his recent accident and recovery period.
The Commissioner also shed light on the complexities of combating banditry, particularly in dense forested areas.
He underscored the crucial role of the Katsina Community Watch Corps, which works in conjunction with the Army, Air Force, Police, and local vigilantes.
Tragically, this fight has come at a high cost, with over 100 members of the Community Watch Corps, more than 30 police officers, and several soldiers making the ultimate sacrifice.
The government appealed to the public to respect these sacrifices and refrain from mockery on social media.
The Katsina State Government affirmed its continued financial commitment to equipping and motivating security forces.
It also highlighted the support provided to victims, rescued individuals, and the families of fallen heroes through the office of the Special Adviser on Banditry and Internal Security.
The state government called upon all citizens, religious leaders, and community elders to continue offering prayers and support.
It urged them to remain calm, avoid unverified stories, and report suspicious activities through a dedicated emergency hotline.
