Over 50 bodies recovered after a deadly mosque attack in Katsina State as survivors search for more victims, urging swift government action to prevent further assaults.
Survivors of a brutal attack on a mosque in Gidan Mantau, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, have reported that more than 50 bodies have been recovered, with many victims still unaccounted for.
The assault occurred during early morning prayers on Tuesday, leaving the community in shock and mourning. According to survivors, search efforts are ongoing in nearby bushes as families continue to look for missing loved ones.
Residents lamented that security agencies and government officials arrived late, with initial relief efforts reaching only the outskirts of the community. Many villagers described the area as unsafe, with roads deserted due to fear of renewed attacks.
While authorities officially confirmed 34 casualties, locals insist the number is significantly higher, estimating at least 55 deaths. Several families have been completely wiped out, while others have fled for safety.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, expressed concern over the increasing violence in Katsina and other parts of the North-West. He confirmed that military operations have intensified and that several terrorist commanders and over 200 suspects have been apprehended.
General Musa also disclosed that terrorists are financing their operations through illegal gold trade, often in collaboration with international networks. He emphasized the need for stronger laws, faster trials for terrorism cases, and community cooperation in reporting suspicious activities.
Survivors and local leaders have appealed to both the federal and state governments to protect vulnerable communities from further bloodshed. Security experts have warned that partial peace agreements with armed groups are counterproductive and allow attacks to persist in new locations.
Despite ongoing military efforts, residents of Gidan Mantau remain in mourning as search teams continue to recover bodies, with hopes of finding missing persons alive diminishing by the day.
