The Katsina State Government (also known as 'home of hospitality') has ordered the immediate closure of all Point of Sale (POS) businesses and commercial phone charging centres in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas as part of renewed efforts to curb banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats in the state.
The directive was announced following an emergency security meeting convened by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda with security agencies, traditional rulers, and other critical stakeholders to review the security situation in the affected areas.
According to the state government, intelligence reports indicated that some criminal elements were exploiting POS outlets and commercial phone charging centres to facilitate financial transactions and communication linked to their operations.
In addition to the closure of the businesses, the government imposed a ban on the sale, purchase, transportation, and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans across the state. The use of motorcycles has also been restricted in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas.
Governor Radda said the measures were designed to disrupt the logistics, mobility, and financial networks that sustain criminal activities in the state.
He warned that individuals or businesses found violating the directives would face legal consequences, stressing that the government remains committed to restoring peace and safeguarding lives and property.
The latest security measures come amid ongoing efforts by the state government and security agencies to tackle the persistent threat of banditry and kidnapping in parts of Katsina State.
Residents have been urged to cooperate with security agencies and support initiatives aimed at improving security across the affected communities.
