24 Bandits Killed as Security Forces Foil Mass Kidnap Attempt in Katsina

At least 24 suspected bandits were killed after a joint security operation foiled an attempted mass abduction in Gidan Bawa village, Kandarawa Ward, Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The operation involved troops of the Nigerian Army, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Katsina Community Watch Corps and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

According to a security source, the operation followed intelligence indicating that about 40 armed men allegedly loyal to notorious bandit leader Isiya Kwashen Garwa were planning to invade the community and abduct residents, particularly women and children.

Security personnel reportedly mobilised after receiving the intelligence and positioned themselves to intercept the attackers before they could carry out the planned operation.

The joint team, including members of the Community Watch Corps and CJTF from the Guga camp, subsequently ambushed the suspected bandits.

The source said 24 of the attackers were neutralised, while others fled into surrounding areas.

The operation also resulted in the rescue of villagers who had reportedly been abducted by the attackers.

Security personnel further recovered 19 stolen cattle during the operation.

The source said efforts were continuing to locate the fleeing members of the group, while security agencies remained on alert in the area.

The reported operation comes amid persistent security challenges across parts of Katsina State, where rural communities continue to face threats from armed bandit groups involved in kidnapping, cattle rustling and other violent crimes. Previous security operations in the state have also involved cooperation between conventional security forces and local vigilante groups.

The latest intervention is expected to provide temporary relief to residents of Bakori and surrounding communities, although authorities are yet to issue a detailed public statement confirming the reported casualty figures.