The Katsina State Government says bandits have suffered heavy casualties after hunters repelled an attack in Bakori Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, the government said 14 bandits were neutralised during the operation.
According to the statement, intelligence at about 1:28 a.m. on October 23, 2026, revealed the movement of 26 armed bandits on 13 motorcycles, led by one Isiya Kwashen Garwa, towards Dawan Laila forest in Bakori LGA.
“Based on the intelligence, all security assets in Bakori LGA were immediately placed on alert to prevent a planned mass kidnap in neighbouring communities,” Mu’azu said.
He said that at about 1:31 p.m. on the same day, reports were received that the bandits had burnt a private vehicle belonging to one Jamilu Lawal, 50, conveying three others travelling to Illela market in Sokoto State from Kakumi Ward.
“In swift response, hunters from Gidan Wawo were mobilised and engaged the criminals in a gun duel. The operation led to the neutralization of fourteen (14) bandits,” the commissioner said.
He however said the community lost one gallant hunter, Mohammed Ibrahim Jidda, 29, who paid the supreme price while defending the community, while another hunter, Usman Sunday, 25, sustained minor gunshot injuries and is receiving treatment.
Mu’azu added that one victim, Jamilu Lawal, was burnt to death in the vehicle during the rescue operation, while three other victims were successfully rescued.
He disclosed that intelligence has revealed plans for a possible reprisal attack by the bandits following the heavy casualties, adding that the state government in collaboration with all security agencies has put in place countermeasures to neutralise any further threats.
“The government commends the courage and sacrifice of our security operatives and community hunters and assures citizens that we remain resolute in protecting lives and property across the state,” he said.
The commissioner urged the public to remain calm and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.
