Police: Bandits attacked Maulud procession in Katsina, killed nine

Bandits have killed nine persons during an attack on a procession of Maulud celebrants at Rugar Kusa village in Musawa LGA of Katsina state.

In a statement on Monday, Abubakar Aliyu, police spokesperson in the state, said the incident occurred at about 10:30 a.m. on Sunday.

Aliyu said the bandits invaded the village in large numbers, carrying weapons and started to shoot at the people who were celebrating Maulud.

Maulud is a celebration of the day the Islamic Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is reported to have been born.

The police spokesperson said seven persons were shot dead by the bandits on the spot, adding that two others were confirmed dead at the hospital where they were receiving treatment.

“On November 5, 2023, at about 2230 hours, armed bandits in their numbers, wielding dangerous weapons such as AK-47 rifles and shooting sporadically, attacked the Maulud procession at Rugar Kusa village, Musawa LGA, Katsina state,” the statement reads.

“Upon receipt of the report, immediately, operatives were mobilised and swung into action, where they succeeded in repelling the attack.

“Seven (7) people were shot dead, and eighteen (18) people sustained gunshot injuries as a result of the attack and were evacuated to General Hospital Musawa for immediate medical attention.

“However, two (2) people out of the injured were confirmed dead by the doctor while receiving treatment. The investigation is still ongoing.”

The police spokesperson added that operatives are making efforts to ensure the perpetrators of the attack are arrested.