Radda Shuts POS Outlets, Bans Jerrycan Fuel Sales and Restricts Motorcycles Over Insecurity

In a renewed effort to stem the tide of banditry and kidnapping across the state, the Katsina State Government has announced a series of stringent security measures, including the closure of Point of Sale (POS) businesses, restrictions on motorcycle operations and a ban on the sale and transportation of fuel in jerrycans.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda unveiled the measures through an executive order issued following an emergency security meeting attended by security agencies, traditional rulers and other critical stakeholders.

The governor's Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula-Mohammed, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday. Under the directive, all POS outlets and commercial phone charging centres in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas are to cease operations immediately.

According to the governor, security assessments revealed that some of these businesses were being exploited by criminal elements to facilitate communication, financial transactions and logistics support for bandit groups operating within the area.

Radda also ordered a statewide ban on the sale, purchase, transportation and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans, noting that investigations had shown that fuel supplies often find their way into criminal camps located in remote forest areas.

The governor further prohibited the use of motorcycles in Matazu and Musawa LGAs, describing the measure as a strategic step aimed at disrupting the mobility of bandits and kidnappers who frequently rely on motorcycles to launch attacks and evade security forces.

He reassured residents that the government remains committed to protecting lives and property and would continue collaborating with security agencies to restore lasting peace across the state.

Radda urged citizens to comply with the directives and support security agencies with credible intelligence capable of aiding ongoing operations.

He reaffirmed that his administration would continue to deploy every lawful and necessary measure required to secure communities and create a safe environment for economic and social activities.