Judge escapes through window as gunmen invade Katsina Shari’ah Court

A Shari’ah Court judge, Mohammed Muktar, reportedly escaped death or abduction after suspected bandits stormed a courtroom in Gwarjo Village, Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday when the armed men allegedly invaded the court, firing gunshots and demanding to know the judge’s whereabouts.

According to eyewitnesses, Justice Muktar noticed the approaching attackers before they reached the courtroom and escaped through a window moments before they arrived.

A resident, who witnessed the incident, said the judge’s quick action saved his life.

“The bandits entered the courtroom, shooting indiscriminately and repeatedly asking where the judge was.

“Fortunately, he had already escaped through the window, and a commercial motorcyclist helped him flee before they arrived,” the witness said.

The resident added that the attackers became enraged after discovering the judge had escaped and allegedly threatened to kill him if he returned to preside over court sessions in the community.

The incident adds to growing security concerns over attacks on judicial officers in parts of northern Nigeria, where some judges have faced threats, intimidation and kidnapping attempts linked to criminal activities and insecurity.

Judicial stakeholders have repeatedly called for improved security at courts and greater protection for judges discharging their constitutional duties.

As of the time of filing this report, the Katsina State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident.