Bandits kill two security operatives, as 16 kidnapped victims regain freedom in Katsina

Unidentified gunmen suspected to be bandits have killed two security officials comprising a member of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps and one vigilante member in the Jibia Local Government Area of the State.

Five people also sustained gunshot injuries as a result of the attacks carried out by the hoodlums in three quarters in Jibia township on Thursday, November 7.

The hoodlums reportedly launched the attacks at about 2115 hrs (9:15 pm), on Ka’ida, Unguwar One Boy, and Danmarke quarters, all in Jibia township, Jibia LGA, Katsina State.

ASP Abubakar Sadiq, the police command spokesperson, confirmed the incident on Friday in a statement, saying the injured persons were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

According to Abubakar, the Command, in collaboration with the military, members of the state community watch corps, and vigilantes, successfully foiled the attacks. The swift response of the joint security team led by the DPO Jibia repelled the attackers, resulting in a fierce gun duel that lasted for over an hour.

“The superior firepower and tactical advantage of the joint security team eventually forced the bandits to retreat with unspecified casualties as the operation resulted in the successful rescue of sixteen (16) victims trapped by the bandits.

“Further development will be communicated in due course, please,” the police spokesman said.

He stated that the Command in conjunction with sister security agencies, is working closely with all relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts to ensure the arrest of the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

Aliyu Musa, the State Commissioner of Police, reassured the general public of the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and properties.