Police Launch Manhunt After Bandits Kill 11 in Katsina State

Police Launch Manhunt After Bandits Kill 11 in Katsina State

The Katsina State Police Command has intensified efforts to apprehend bandits responsible for the brutal killing of 11 civilians in Jeka da Kolo and Kwalgoro villages, located in Kankia Local Government Area, following a violent attack on Sunday afternoon. The incident, described as “cowardly and barbaric” by the state Commissioner of Police, Ali Umar-Fage, occurred around noon when armed bandits stormed the communities, leaving multiple lives lost before fleeing the scene. The police have since launched a comprehensive manhunt to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

According to a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, the attack took place despite recent successes by security operatives in disrupting criminal activities in the region. On April 29, police had successfully foiled a cattle rustling attempt in Gadar Yan Tulu and Kartaka villages, recovering 205 animals — including 91 cows and 114 sheep — in a major operation that demonstrated their ongoing commitment to curbing insecurity. Additionally, on Saturday, security forces repelled an attack on Matinjin village, forcing the assailants to retreat with gunshot injuries and recovering eight motorcycles used in their operations.

Despite these victories, the bandits regrouped and launched fresh assaults on the vulnerable communities, underscoring the persistent threat posed by armed criminal elements in northern Nigeria. Commissioner Umar-Fage expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. He emphasized that the police remain resolute in their mission to ensure justice is served and that those responsible for the killings will not escape accountability.

To bolster security in the affected areas, additional tactical teams have been deployed to assist in tracking the fleeing suspects. The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid in the swift apprehension of the perpetrators. He stressed the importance of community involvement in restoring peace and stability to Katsina State.

The incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in parts of northern Nigeria, where banditry and cattle rustling continue to plague rural communities. As the police step up operations, residents are being reminded to stay alert and report suspicious activities. The government’s commitment to enhancing security remains a top priority, and authorities are working tirelessly to ensure that such tragic events do not recur. The hunt for the bandits continues, with hope that justice will be served and peace restored to the affected villages.