Katsina bandit reprisal attack killings leave 11 dead in Kankia after suspected bandits launched retaliatory strike on Gwalgoro village

At least 11 civilians have been killed in a reprisal attack by suspected bandits in Kankia Local Government Area of Katsina State, following an earlier failed assault that was repelled by security operatives.

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The Katsina bandit reprisal attack killings occurred after a joint security team successfully intercepted armed assailants on Saturday, engaging them in a fierce gun battle and reportedly neutralising several of the attackers.

Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the incidents on Sunday, stating that intelligence reports indicated a notorious bandit leader, identified as Mohammadu Fulani, was advancing with armed men towards strategic locations.

According to Dr Nasir Mu’azu, security forces led by the Divisional Police Officer of Kankia engaged the group, recovering eight motorcycles and rustled cattle while repelling the initial attack.

However, the situation escalated later the same day when the attackers regrouped and launched a fresh assault on Gwalgoro Village in Gyaza/Kunduru Ward around midday.

The second attack proved deadly, with 11 residents killed in what authorities described as a retaliatory strike targeting innocent civilians.

Dr Nasir Mu’azu condemned the violence, describing the attack as a cowardly act of terror and extending condolences to the affected families.

He praised the efforts of security operatives, noting that community intelligence played a key role in disrupting the initial assault and limiting its impact.

The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies to help prevent further attacks in the area.

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Authorities reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and strengthening security across Katsina State amid ongoing banditry challenges in parts of northern Nigeria.