In two separate attacks on Friday evening, bandits ambushed vigilante groups in Katsina State, resulting in the deaths of nine security personnel and the theft of six pump action guns.
A security source revealed that the first attack occurred when heavily armed bandits targeted members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (KSCWC) and local vigilantes who were providing protection for farmers harvesting crops at Unguwar Kafa, along the Yankara-Faskari Road in Faskari Local Government Area.
Upon receiving reports of the ambush, a joint security team comprising police and military personnel from Unguwar Boka responded to the scene, engaging the assailants in a fierce gunfight. The bandits were eventually repelled and forced to retreat into a nearby forest. Unfortunately, six security operatives—four members of the Community Watch Corps and two vigilantes—were killed during the confrontation.
In a second attack that same evening, another group of bandits ambushed vigilante officers from Matazu Local Government as they traveled from Gwarjo to Yalwa. The attack resulted in the deaths of three vigilantes, with one additional officer sustaining serious injuries. Jamilu Aliyu, the Secretary of the Matazu vigilante group, confirmed the incident to local media.
Following the tragic events, Katsina State Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen officers, praising their bravery and dedication. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the governor said, “These brave men who lost their lives are true heroes of our state. Their sacrifice in service to Katsina will never be forgotten. We stand with their families in this difficult time and assure them of our unwavering support.”
Governor Radda also announced that security forces are keeping the affected areas under surveillance, and investigations are ongoing to bring the perpetrators to justice. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the security and welfare of Katsina State residents, urging citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to maintain peace and order across the state.
