Katsina State has once again come under the grip of deadly banditry, as at least six people were killed and close to 60 others abducted in separate attacks across multiple communities in recent days.
The latest assault occurred late Sunday night in Layin Gara, a village in Funtua Local Government Area. According to local sources, the attack began around 10:30 p.m., resulting in the deaths of two residents and the abduction of 16 others. Eyewitnesses say the armed assailants operated for several hours without facing any resistance from security agencies.
“They came fully armed and moved through the village unchallenged, taking people from their homes,” a resident recounted anonymously.
Just a day earlier, on Saturday, another group of bandits launched an attack on Maikuma village in Dandume LGA. That incident left four people dead and at least 43 others kidnapped. Locals said the gunmen, heavily armed and riding motorcycles, arrived in large numbers and terrorized the community throughout the night.
“They went from house to house, taking people before retreating into the forest,” a source told reporters.
Confirming the incident, Chairman of Dandume LGA, Hon. Basiru Musa, said more than 100 bandits were involved in the Saturday attack. He described the situation as devastating, adding that the assailants came with the intent to kill and capture as many villagers as possible.
“They killed four people and abducted around 43, although some reports suggest the number could be as high as 45 or more,” Musa said.
He also explained that prior intelligence had hinted at a possible attack. Acting swiftly, he contacted the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and the military unit stationed in the area. While the security forces responded, they were reportedly constrained by jurisdictional boundaries and were unable to pursue the attackers deep into the forest.
Expressing deep frustration over the worsening security situation, the chairman called for stronger intervention from higher authorities. He emphasized that the recurring attacks were not only traumatizing residents but also undermining public confidence in the state’s ability to protect its citizens.
“We need more than a reactive approach. The government must take decisive and proactive steps to address this growing crisis. Our communities are living in constant fear,” he stated.
The recent surge in attacks highlights the persistent threat posed by armed groups in northwestern Nigeria, despite ongoing military operations and security deployments in the region. Residents in affected areas continue to plead for greater protection and long-term solutions to restore peace and stability.
