By David Lawani, Abuja
At least 24 bandits were killed in Katsina State after a joint operation by troops of the Nigerian Army, operatives of the Department of State Services and the Katsina Community Watch Corps foiled an attempt to abduct scores of residents of Gidan Bawa village, Kandarawa Ward, Bakori Local Government Area.
The operation, conducted on Tuesday, also resulted in the rescue of villagers reportedly seized by the attackers and the recovery of 19 stolen cattle.
A security source said the operation followed intelligence indicating that about 40 armed bandits loyal to a notorious kingpin, Isiya Kwashen Garwa, were planning to invade the community and abduct a large number of residents, particularly women and children.
The intelligence reportedly prompted security agencies to mobilise personnel from the Katsina Community Watch Corps and the Civilian Joint Task Force from Guga camp to intercept the attackers.
The security forces subsequently laid an ambush for the gang as it moved to execute the planned assault, triggering a fierce gun battle in which 24 bandits were reportedly neutralised.
The operation also enabled the security personnel to rescue villagers who the attackers had already abducted.
Nineteen cattle believed to have been stolen by the bandits were recovered during the operation, according to the security source.
The source said the planned attack was allegedly intended to replicate the recent mass abduction in Woro community, Kwara State, and create the impression that security agencies were losing the battle against criminal groups.
Following the encounter, security operatives intensified efforts to locate and apprehend the gang members who escaped from the scene.
The operation highlights the growing use of intelligence-driven joint operations involving conventional security agencies and community-based security outfits in Katsina’s fight against banditry and mass kidnapping.
Security operations have continued across vulnerable communities in the state as authorities seek to prevent further attacks, protect residents and dismantle criminal networks operating across the region.
