Katsina security outfit kills over 40 bandits, repels attack

Katsina State security forces, bolstered by local hunters and the Community Watch Corps, have successfully repelled a major bandit assault on Guga Village in Bakori Local Government Area. The operation resulted in the deaths of more than 40 armed bandits, including several high-ranking commanders, according to a statement from the state's Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu.

The attack, which occurred Sunday evening, involved over 200 bandits led by notorious kingpin Idi Abasu Aiki, reportedly supported by members of the Ado Aleru group from neighboring Zamfara State. Intelligence indicated the bandits aimed to dislodge local security forces before attacking Bakori town and surrounding villages. However, swift government surveillance and a coordinated response led to a fierce gun battle.

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More than 40 bandits were neutralised during the operation, while follow-up intelligence confirmed that about eight senior commanders of the criminal group were eliminated.

Mu’azu confirmed that about eight senior commanders were eliminated, and the bandit leader, Idi Abasu Aiki, is believed to have sustained life-threatening injuries. This success follows a similar operation on July 7, where the same criminal network suffered significant losses in Dawan Laila Village. The commissioner described the latest attack as a desperate attempt by the bandits to regain control and disrupt the established community-based security network.

Despite the victory against the bandits, the operation claimed the lives of five members of the hunters’ team. They were reportedly killed while attending to personal shopping outside the frontline. Commissioner Mu’azu extended condolences to the families of the fallen hunters, acknowledging their sacrifice in defending the communities. Security forces are now conducting clearance operations and intensifying surveillance to prevent further attacks.

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These courageous patriots paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of our communities. I, on behalf of the government and the people of Katsina State, condole with the families of the fallen hunters.