Katsina State security forces repelled a major bandit attack on Tuesday, killing 30 armed criminals in a fierce gun battle across Kadisau, Raudama, and Sabon Layi communities in Faskari Local Government Area.
The joint operation, involving police, military troops, and Nigerian Air Force personnel, successfully countered the coordinated assault but at a heavy cost—three mobile police officers and two soldiers lost their lives, while another officer, Ya’u Aliyu, sustained injuries.
Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mua’zu, confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday, expressing the government’s condolences to the families of the fallen security operatives and affected communities.
“Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Mua’zu said, assuring that the families would receive full government support. He reiterated Governor Dikko Radda’s administration’s determination to eradicate banditry and restore peace across the state.
The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies, emphasizing that investigations into the attack were ongoing.
“We will not relent until every criminal element is flushed out of Katsina,” Mua’zu declared. “Our security operations are being intensified in collaboration with federal agencies to ensure the safety of all citizens. Together, we will overcome these challenges.”
The incident underscores the escalating security operations in Northwest Nigeria as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle bandit strongholds following recent deadly attacks.