The Katsina State Government has rolled out new security restrictions aimed at disrupting the operations of bandits and other criminal groups terrorising communities across the state.
The measures, approved by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda through an Executive Order, include a statewide prohibition on the sale, conveyance and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans.
The directive followed an emergency security meeting attended by heads of security agencies, traditional leaders and other stakeholders to evaluate the security challenges confronting the state.
In a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the government said intelligence reports indicated that fuel transported in containers was finding its way into the hands of criminal elements operating from forests and remote settlements.
According to the statement, restricting access to petroleum products is expected to weaken the operational capacity of armed groups involved in banditry, kidnapping and related crimes.
As part of the latest security strategy, authorities also ordered the closure of all Point of Sale outlets and commercial phone-charging businesses in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas.
The government explained that security findings suggested that some of the facilities had become channels through which criminal networks conducted financial transactions and maintained communication.
The Executive Order further placed a ban on motorcycle operations within the two local government areas.
Officials said motorcycles have remained a preferred means of transportation for bandits due to their ability to navigate difficult terrains and evade security operatives.
Governor Radda reiterated his administration’s determination to restore peace and strengthen security across the state, assuring residents that every lawful step would be taken to protect lives and property.
He appealed to members of the public to cooperate with security agencies by adhering strictly to the new regulations and providing useful intelligence that could aid ongoing operations.
The governor warned that anyone found violating the directives would face the full weight of the law, stressing that the measures were necessary to address the evolving security threats in the state.
The government maintained that the restrictions form part of a broader campaign to dismantle logistical and financial support systems sustaining criminal activities and to create a safer environment for residents and businesses.
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