By Staff Reporter

Suspected armed bandits have killed two civilians and a police officer during a series of attacks in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The incident occurred on April 5, 2026, when the assailants, reportedly in large numbers and heavily armed, blocked the Karadua–Musawa Road and opened fire on a moving Volkswagen Golf vehicle, killing two occupants on the spot.

Security sources said a joint response team comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the military, Katsina State Community Watch Corps, and local vigilantes was swiftly deployed to the scene following a distress report. The team successfully dislodged the attackers and evacuated the victims to a nearby hospital.

The bandits later regrouped and launched an attempted assault on the Matazu Police Division. However, officers on duty repelled the attack, preventing further damage and restoring calm to the area. One police officer was, however, killed in the line of duty during the exchange.

The Commissioner of Police, Ali Umar Fage, has since ordered the deployment of additional security assets to the area to forestall further attacks.

Police authorities confirmed that an investigation is underway to track down and apprehend those responsible for the violence.

The Commissioner also extended condolences to the families of the deceased civilians and the fallen officer, urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Further updates are expected as investigations progress.