Insecurity: Katsina govt bans motorcycles, POS operation 

Insecurity: Katsina govt bans motorcycles, POS operation 

Katsina State Government on Monday announced fresh security measures, including ban on use of motorcycles and closure of all POS services as it ramps up efforts to restore peace and security across the state.

The decision followed spike in attacks and abductions by terrorists across Matazu, Musawa, Malumfashi, Kankara, Bakori, Funtua, Faskari, Dandume and Sabuwa local government areas, among others.

The abduction of former defence spokesman Rabe Abubakar and his death in the hands of his abductors in the state have raised renewed concern on the security situation there.

In response to these attacks, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda on Monday issued an  Executive Order aimed at strengthening security and protecting lives and property, with focus on taming the rising cases of banditry and kidnapping.

The governor announced the measures after an emergency security meeting  attended by heads of security agencies, traditional leaders, and other key stakeholders.

As part of the Executive Order, the sale, purchase, transportation, and storage of petroleum products in jerry cans have been banned across Katsina State with immediate effect.

This, he said, is to prevent the diversion of fuel to criminal elements operating in remote locations.

The Executive Order also include the immediate closure of all Point of Sale (POS) businesses and commercial phone charging points in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas.

This measure followed security assessments which showed that these facilities are being exploited by criminal networks to facilitate their activities, the governor said.

“In addition, the use of motorcycles has been banned throughout Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas.

“The restriction is intended to disrupt the movement and operational activities of bandits and kidnappers who often rely on motorcycles for transportation.”

Radda stated that the safety of citizens remains the highest priority of his administration and assured residents that the government will continue to work closely with security agencies to restore peace and stability in all parts of the state.

He called on residents to support the security efforts by complying fully with the directives and providing useful information to security agencies whenever necessary.

The governor said defaulters of the order would be dealt with decisively.

“The Katsina state government remains committed to taking all lawful and necessary measures to ensure that communities across the state remain safe, secure, and conducive for economic and social activities.”