Katsina Hunters Kill 14 Suspected Bandits, Foil Planned Mass Abduction -

Community hunters in Katsina State have reportedly killed 14 suspected bandits during a gun battle, disrupting an alleged mass kidnapping plot targeting communities in the state.

The Katsina State Government disclosed this in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Danmusa, on Friday.

According to the statement, intelligence reports indicated that 26 heavily armed bandits, riding on 13 motorcycles and allegedly led by a notorious kingpin identified as Isiya Kwashen Garwa, were heading towards Dawan Laila Forest to prepare for coordinated attacks on neighbouring communities.

Following the intelligence report, security agencies reportedly placed their operational units in Bakori Local Government Area on high alert, helping to disrupt the suspected abduction plan.

However, at about 1:31 p.m. on the same day, the armed men allegedly attacked a private vehicle conveying four passengers from Kakumi Ward to Illela Market in Sokoto State. The attackers reportedly set the vehicle ablaze, trapping the occupants.

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Community hunters from Gidan Wawo were subsequently mobilised and engaged the fleeing suspects in a fierce gun battle, resulting in the reported deaths of 14 bandits and the rescue of three victims alive.

The operation also claimed the life of a community hunter, Mohammed Ibrahim Jidda, who was reportedly killed while defending the community. Another hunter, 25-year-old Usman Sunday, sustained minor gunshot injuries and is receiving medical treatment.

One of the travellers, identified as Jamilu Lawal, also died after being trapped in the burning vehicle, according to the government statement.

The state government further warned of possible reprisal attacks following the reported losses suffered by the armed group. It said security measures had been activated in collaboration with relevant agencies to protect residents and prevent further attacks.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies as efforts continue to maintain peace and security across affected communities.