State Government Bans POS, Fuel Sales
The government of Katsina State 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 new security steps to tackle banditry and kidnapping.
The order came after a security review meeting led by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda with security agencies, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders.
Authorities said some of the affected businesses were being used to support communication and financial activities linked to criminal groups.
The government also placed a ban on the use of motorcycles in Matazu and Musawa local government areas.
Officials said the restriction is aimed at limiting the movement of armed groups who often rely on motorcycles to move quickly between communities and forest areas.
In addition, the state government announced a statewide restriction on the sale, purchase, movement, and storage of petrol in jerrycans.
It said this step is meant to stop fuel from being diverted to bandits operating in remote hideouts.
Security reports shared during the meeting suggested that fuel movement in containers has helped sustain the activities of criminal groups in some parts of the state.
The government said cutting off such supply will weaken their operations.
Governor Radda said the protection of lives and property remains the main duty of his administration.
He assured residents that the government will continue working with security agencies to restore peace across the state.
He also urged citizens to obey the new rules and report any suspicious movement to security operatives.
He warned that anyone who breaks the order will face strict punishment, saying enforcement will be firm across the affected areas.
