Katsina hunters eliminate 14 bandits, foil mass kidnap

In Katsina State, local hunters thwarted a major kidnapping attempt by killing 14 bandits and disrupting their plans. The incident occurred in Dawan Laila Forest, where the bandits, led by Isiya Kwashen Garwa, were preparing to attack surrounding communities. Intelligence reports were received on Friday, prompting immediate security action.

By 1:31 p.m., the armed bandits attacked a vehicle carrying four passengers from Kakumi Ward to Illela Market in Sokoto State, setting it ablaze. Community hunters from Gidan Wawo swiftly intervened, engaging the bandits in combat, resulting in the neutralization of 14 criminals and the rescue of three survivors. The operation came at a high cost, as a hunter named Mohammed Ibrahim Jidda was killed, while another, Usman Sunday, sustained minor injuries.

One of the kidnapped individuals, Jamilu Lawal, tragically died from burns sustained during the attack. The Katsina government warned of potential retaliation from the bandits and assured residents that countermeasures are in place to prevent further threats.