By Isma’il Adamu
Suspected gunmen have killed prominent Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka and another person in an attack at his residence in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The attack reportedly occurred at about 9 p.m. at the entrance to the cleric’s residence, where two armed men riding on a motorcycle opened fire on the victims.
Both victims were rushed to General Hospital, Dutsin-Ma, for emergency treatment but were later pronounced dead.
Residents identified the second victim as Malam Adamu, who was believed to have been caught in the attack.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants arrived shortly after a meeting at the cleric’s residence and opened fire on the victims.
The Katsina State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar-Sadiq Aliyu.
According to the statement, the Divisional Police Officer in Dutsin-Ma led a team of operatives to the scene after receiving the report, while the victims were taken to hospital, where they were confirmed dead.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ali Umar Fage, has ordered the deployment of tactical and operational teams to the area to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
The police said an investigation had commenced and efforts were being intensified to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack and bring those responsible to justice.
The commissioner also extended condolences to the families, friends and followers of the deceased, as well as residents of Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area.
The killing has plunged the community, particularly the cleric’s followers, into mourning.
Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
