Bandits Kill 11 Persons In Katsina

The Katsina State Government has confirmed the death of eleven people following a retaliatory attack by bandits in Kankia Local Government Area, even as security forces earlier recorded a major operational success against the same group.

In a press release issued by the State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs on Sunday, the Commissioner, Dr Nasir Mu’azu, disclosed that the incident occurred in two phases on 2 May 2026.

According to the statement, security agencies had received intelligence that a suspected bandit leader, Mohammadu Fulani, was advancing with armed men toward strategic locations around bridges in Kankia LGA.

Acting swiftly on the information, the Divisional Police Officer of Kankia led a joint security team to intercept the group.

The operation resulted in a fierce confrontation during which several bandits were neutralised. Security operatives also recovered eight motorcycles and several rustled cattle, now in police custody.

Authorities described the development as a significant operational victory in the ongoing fight against banditry in the state.

However, hours later, the same group reportedly regrouped and launched a reprisal attack on Gwalgoro Village in the Gyaza/Kunduru Ward of the local government area.

The assault, which occurred around midday, claimed the lives of eleven residents.

The state government condemned the attack, describing it as a “cowardly act of terror” targeting innocent civilians. It extended condolences to the families of the victims and assured them that efforts were ongoing to bring those responsible to justice.

The Government also reaffirmed its commitment under Governor Dikko Umaru Radda to strengthening security operations across the state.

While commending security personnel for their prompt and professional response, the Government urged residents to continue supporting law enforcement agencies with credible, timely information, noting that community intelligence remains critical to preventing further attacks.