Gunmen suspected to be bandits attacked a community in Katsina State shortly after Juma’at prayers, leaving 16 people feared killed. The assailants reportedly opened fire on residents as they returned from the mosque, creating panic and chaos.

Witnesses said the attackers struck without warning and shot sporadically before fleeing the area. The sudden violence has left families grieving and the community in shock.

Local residents are calling on security agencies to intensify patrols and respond faster to such attacks. Many say the timing of the assault, right after prayers, shows the growing boldness of criminal gangs in the state.

As of now, officials have not released a full casualty count or details on arrests. The incident adds to ongoing concerns about banditry and insecurity in parts of Katsina and other northwest states.