Two Security Officials Killed, 16 Hostages Rescued in Katsina Amid Coordinated Bandit Attacks.
Two security officers, including a member of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps and a local vigilante, were killed during an encounter with armed bandits in Jibia Local Government Area, Katsina State. The tragic incident unfolded amid coordinated assaults launched by the bandits across three different areas of Jibia Township on the evening of November 7.
The assailants initiated their attacks around 9:15 p.m., targeting the Ka’ida, Unguwar One Boy, and Danmarke quarters within Jibia Township. During the assaults, five residents sustained gunshot injuries. The injured victims were promptly transported to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment, according to the State Police Command.
The spokesperson for the Katsina State Police Command, ASP Abubakar Sadiq, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Friday. He reported that the coordinated response from the police, military, community watch corps, and local vigilantes helped to thwart the bandits’ plans. The swift action led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Jibia resulted in a fierce gunfight that lasted for over an hour.
ASP Sadiq noted, “The superior firepower and tactical expertise of the joint security forces compelled the bandits to retreat, with the attackers suffering unspecified casualties. The operation culminated in the successful rescue of sixteen individuals who had been held hostage by the bandits.”
He added that the police command, in collaboration with other security agencies, is intensifying efforts to track down the perpetrators. Further updates on the situation will be provided as the investigation continues.
The Commissioner of Police for Katsina State, Aliyu Musa, expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen officers and assured the public of the command’s dedication to maintaining safety. He urged residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities, providing emergency contact numbers: 0815 967 7777 and 0707 272 2539.
