Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has introduced a series of stringent security measures designed to weaken the operational capacity of bandits and kidnappers across the state.
The new directives, issued through an Executive Order, followed an emergency security meeting attended by security agencies, traditional leaders, and other critical stakeholders focused on tackling the ongoing security threats affecting several communities.
One of the key measures is the immediate prohibition of the sale, purchase, transportation, and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans throughout the state.
The government explained that the restriction is intended to cut off fuel supplies often used by criminal groups hiding in forests and remote locations.
Governor Radda also directed the immediate shutdown of all Point of Sale (POS) centres and commercial phone-charging businesses operating in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas.
According to the governor, intelligence gathered by security agencies indicated that some of these facilities were being used by criminal networks to facilitate communication and logistics for their operations.
In addition, the Executive Order places a complete ban on the use of motorcycles within Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas. Authorities believe the measure will limit the mobility of bandits and kidnappers who frequently use motorcycles to launch attacks and escape from security personnel.
Radda reaffirmed that safeguarding lives and property remains a top priority of his administration and pledged continued cooperation with security agencies to restore peace in affected areas.
He called on residents to comply with the new regulations and support ongoing security efforts by providing useful and timely information to law enforcement agencies.
The governor warned that anyone found violating the directives would be sanctioned accordingly, stressing that the state government would enforce the measures without compromise.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, said the administration remains committed to deploying every lawful strategy necessary to ensure the safety of residents and create an environment conducive to development.
Meanwhile, Governor Radda paid a sympathy and solidarity visit to Mrs. Amina Rabe Abubakar, wife of the late Major General Rabe Abubakar, at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Katsina after her rescue from captivity.
The governor, accompanied by the Director-General of the Media Directorate, Maiwada Dammallam, visited the hospital following Mrs. Abubakar’s successful rescue by troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA during a military operation targeting bandits.
Radda commended the Nigerian Army for what he described as a swift, courageous and highly professional rescue mission.
He praised the troops involved for their dedication, bravery and commitment to protecting citizens from criminal elements threatening the state’s security.
“The officers of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have demonstrated the kind of courage, sacrifice, and professionalism that gives hope to the people of Katsina,” the governor said.
