A tragic incident unfolded in Katsina State as terrorists targeted a Maulud procession conducted by Muslim faithful in the village of Kusa in the Musawa Local Government Area. The attack, which took place at 11:00 pm on Sunday night, resulted in the loss of numerous lives, with over 30 individuals sustaining both bullet and non-bullet injuries. Additionally, 21 individuals, including women and children, were reportedly abducted.
Conflicting reports regarding the exact number of casualties have emerged, with some residents estimating the figure to be as high as 30, while others suggest a greater number. Bala Ibrahim, the vice chairman of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) from the affected council area, stated that 14 people were killed, while 17 others suffered gunshot wounds. However, the state police command has reported only two fatalities, along with 18 injured individuals.
Eyewitnesses have described how the terrorists surrounded the location of the Maulud procession and indiscriminately fired gunshots into the crowd. Subsequently, they abducted several people, including women and children, relocating them to a notorious forest on the outskirts of the community.
Governor Dikko Radda visited the affected community on Monday morning to express his condolences and support. The deceased have been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites, while the injured are receiving medical treatment at various hospitals within and outside the council area.
Katsina State has been grappling with a surge in security challenges caused by the activities of terrorists, kidnappers, and rustlers. These incidents have resulted in numerous casualties, injuries, abductions, and the pillaging of communities.
Confirming the attack, ASP Abubakar Aliyu, spokesperson for the state police command, disclosed that two individuals succumbed to their injuries while receiving medical treatment. Eighteen others sustained injuries and are currently undergoing treatment. The police are conducting further investigations to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure justice is served.
