Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has signed a new Executive Order aimed at tackling rising cases of thuggery, gang violence, and related criminal activities across the state.
The order, signed on Tuesday at the Government House in Katsina, establishes a multi-agency security outfit known as the Katsina State Kauraye and Thuggery Suppression Task Force to coordinate efforts in restoring law and order.
Governor Radda said the move was necessitated by increasing incidents of street violence and public disorder, particularly in urban centres, stressing that his administration would not tolerate any form of lawlessness.
The Miscreant Activities (Suppression) Order, 2026, provides a legal framework for the prevention, control, and prosecution of gang-related offences. It empowers security agencies to take decisive and coordinated action against individuals and groups involved in such activities.
The newly established task force comprises key security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), alongside the Katsina State Community Watch Corps, Hisbah Board, relevant ministries, and the Association of Local Government Chairmen (ALGON).
According to the governor, the task force is mandated to identify and dismantle criminal networks, carry out intelligence-driven operations, arrest offenders, and ensure their prosecution in accordance with the law.
He added that the body would intensify surveillance in identified hotspots, confiscate weapons used in criminal activities, and work closely with communities to prevent the recruitment of youths into gangs.
Governor Radda also announced plans to establish mobile courts to ensure speedy trial of suspects, noting that the Attorney General would collaborate with the Chief Judge to fast-track cases related to thuggery and related offences.
He reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance on criminality, warning that offenders would face the full weight of the law.
“We will not allow lawlessness to thrive in our state. This action demonstrates our resolve to protect our communities and uphold the rule of law,” the governor said.
The task force will operate under the supervision of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Top government officials and security representatives attended the signing ceremony.
