The Katsina State Government 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 fresh efforts to tackle insecurity in the state.
Governor Dikko Radda announced the directive through an Executive Order following an emergency security meeting attended by security agencies, traditional rulers, and other critical stakeholders.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula-Mohammed.
According to the governor, security assessments revealed that some POS outlets and commercial phone charging centres in the affected areas were being exploited by criminal networks to support banditry and kidnapping operations.
In addition to the closure of these businesses, the state government has banned the sale, purchase, transportation, and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans across Katsina State. The government said the measure is aimed at preventing fuel supplies from reaching criminal elements operating in remote locations.
Governor Radda also announced a ban on the use of motorcycles in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas, noting that bandits and kidnappers frequently rely on motorcycles for mobility and operational activities.
He emphasized that the safety of lives and property remains the top priority of his administration and assured residents that the government would continue working closely with security agencies to restore lasting peace and stability across the state.
The governor urged residents to comply fully with the new directives and support ongoing security operations by providing credible information to relevant authorities.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting communities, Governor Radda stated that the government would continue to implement all lawful and necessary measures to ensure the state remains safe, secure, and conducive for economic and social activities.
He also warned that anyone found violating the directives would face the full weight of the law.
The latest measures highlight the state government’s intensified efforts to disrupt criminal activities and strengthen security in areas affected by banditry and kidnapping.