Gunmen suspected to be bandits have ambushed and killed five members of the Katsina State Community Security Watch Corps (KCSWC) at Maharba community in Matazu Local Government Area (LGA).

The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon when the victims were said to be heading for a reinforcement operation and moving in a Hilux vehicle.

KCSWC is a security outfit established by the current state government to complement the operations of conventional security operatives.

It was learnt that the bandits had stationed themselves on top of mango trees when the security operatives drove into the ambush.

According to sources, about 20 armed bandits had laid the ambush and later set fire to the Hilux vehicle with the victims still inside.

Governor Dikko Radda, who was informed about the incident shortly after it happened, joined other government and security operatives to visit the scene the same Saturday.
Government officials who visited the scene of the incident included the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Muazu; the Commissioner of Police; the DSS Director; the Chief of Staff; and the Matazu LGA Chairman, Shamsudeen Sayaya.
Radda, who inspected the site while the Hilux vehicle was still smouldering, condemned the attack and promised to strengthen collaboration with security agencies and local stakeholders to address the security situation in the state.

“We are adopting new strategies to better protect our people. The sacrifice of these brave men will not be in vain,” the governor reiterated.
The governor extended condolences to the families of the slain officers, praying for strength and comfort as the state mourns the loss.

Radda also met with residents in surrounding communities to assess their security needs with a view to possible intervention by the state government.

On his part, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Muazu, said security operatives had recently carried out successful operations, especially in the Faskari council area, but admitted that challenges persist.

He, however, called on residents to support the government with security-related information, as well as prayers and patience, as efforts were ongoing to bring a lasting end to the security challenges bedevilling the state.