Gunmen Kill Islamic Scholar, Friend in Katsina, Police Launch Manhunt

The Katsina State Police Command has confirmed the killing of prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka and his friend, Adamu Abubakar, in an attack by suspected gunmen in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of the state.

The victims were reportedly shot dead on Monday, October 26, 2026, at about 7:30 p.m. in front of the scholar’s residence by two armed men riding on a motorcycle.

The police spokesperson, Deputy Superintendent of Police Abubakar Aliyu, disclosed this in a statement, adding that the command had launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the fleeing assailants.

According to the statement, the Divisional Police Officer in Dutsin-Ma promptly led a team of operatives to the scene after receiving the report.

The victims were subsequently rushed to the nearest hospital for medical attention but were pronounced dead by a doctor on arrival.

The Commissioner of Police in Katsina State, Ali Umar Fage, has ordered the deployment of tactical and operational teams to the area as part of efforts to track down the perpetrators.

The command assured residents that it would intensify efforts to ensure those responsible for the killings were arrested and brought to justice.

The police commissioner also extended his condolences to the families, friends and followers of the deceased, as well as residents of Dutsin-Ma, over the incident.

The command said further developments would be communicated to the public as the investigation progresses.