Bandits Kill 11 in Katsina Reprisal Raid After Gun Battle

11 killed in Katsina bandit attack as reprisal strikes Gwalgoro village following a security interception.

Katsina State Commissioner Dr Nasir Muazu confirms bandit attack in Kankia LGA.

Tragedy has struck Kankia Local Government Area in Katsina State after suspected bandits launched a deadly reprisal attack that claimed the lives of 11 residents. The assault targeted Gwalgoro Village in the Gyaza/Kunduru Ward, leaving the community in mourning.

The State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the incident on Sunday. He explained that the violence was a fallout from an earlier confrontation between security forces and the armed group.

Intelligence reports had indicated that a notorious bandit leader, Mohammadu Fulani, was mobilizing fighters towards strategic bridges in the area. Acting on this tip-off, a joint security team led by the Kankia Divisional Police Officer moved to intercept the criminals.

A fierce gun battle ensued, resulting in the neutralization of several bandits. The operatives also recovered eight motorcycles and rustled cattle during the operation. Dr. Mu’azu noted that the initial success was made possible by credible information provided by local residents.

However, the situation took a grim turn around midday. The attackers regrouped and returned to the area, unleashing their fury on the innocent community of Gwalgoro. The commissioner described the killing of the 11 civilians as a "cowardly act of terror" carried out in frustration over their earlier defeat.

While condoling with the families of the victims, the commissioner lauded the bravery of the security personnel who thwarted the first attack. He called on residents to remain alert and continue sharing timely intelligence with authorities to prevent further loss of lives.