Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State is currently gripped by fear and unrest following a series of violent attacks by armed bandits. Over the past two days, the criminals have reportedly killed eight people, abducted numerous individuals, and left several others wounded in their wake.
Abductions and Killings
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the bandits carried out multiple raids across the area. A local source revealed, “Earlier this morning, they drove off in one truck filled with captives, and shortly after, they took another truck filled with people.” The attackers have forced many villagers to flee into nearby forests for safety, with some reportedly losing their lives in the process.
According to reports, the bandits are currently leading their captives to their hideouts, leaving behind a trail of chaos and despair. Residents in affected communities remain in a state of panic as they continue to evade capture.
Targeted Communities
The violence began with a series of coordinated attacks yesterday, during which:
- One person was killed in Gidan Damo.
- Another victim was reported in Gidan Umoru.
- Two individuals were killed in Ungwan Mai Kawo.
- In Burdugau G, Malumfashi LGA, one person was killed, a car was burned, and four others sustained injuries and are now hospitalized.
Today, the attacks have intensified, with residents of Yargoje and Dankunuji bearing the brunt of the violence. Sources reported that one person was killed, several others were injured, and numerous individuals were abducted. The bandits are currently believed to be holding their captives at Gidan Boka.
The Role of Ba’baru
The attacks are being attributed to a notorious bandit kingpin known as Ba’baru of Gidan Gamji. This individual reportedly has a strong presence in Powa, Jeka, and Masalawa, operating primarily under the Maidaki ward. Ba’baru is alleged to have a history of targeting the Hausa population in Kankara, and he was reportedly responsible for killing over 100 people during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s campaign visit to Katsina in 2014.
Spillover from Zamfara
The influx of bandits from neighboring Zamfara State has exacerbated the security situation in Kankara. According to local sources, these expelled criminals are gathering in Mai Komo, a border community in Katsina, and are joining forces with local gangs to launch further attacks. This development raises serious concerns about the growing insecurity in the region.
A Community in Crisis
Kankara Local Government Area has long been a hotspot for banditry in Katsina State. The recent attacks have further destabilized the region, leaving residents in a state of fear and uncertainty. Many communities are calling for immediate government intervention to restore peace and security.
Police Response
As of the time of filing this report, the Katsina State Police Command has not issued an official statement confirming the attacks. However, local residents and sources continue to appeal for increased security presence and swift action to address the escalating violence.
This troubling situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive security measures to protect lives and property in Kankara and surrounding areas. The affected communities remain hopeful for relief and resolution in the face of these ongoing threats.
