Bandits kill Katsina security agents, burn patrol vehicle

At least five local security operatives were killed on Saturday by suspected bandits in Maharba village, Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The attackers also set the operatives’ patrol vehicle ablaze.

Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred as the security team responded to a distress call about the presence of bandits in the area.

The assailants, estimated at around 20 and riding motorcycles, ambushed the security personnel near a riverbank close to the village.

Concealed among trees, they reportedly opened fire on the operatives and set their Hilux van on fire, killing all five occupants.

Among the casualties was the unit commander, Mallam Sanusi, who oversaw security operations in Kusada, Kankia, and parts of Charanchi Local Government Areas.

In response to the incident, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda led a high-powered delegation of security officials to the scene for an on-the-spot assessment.

The delegation included the state’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu; the Commissioner of Police; the Director of the Department of State Services; and the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, among others.

They were received by the Chairman of Matazu Local Government Area, Alhaji Shamsudeen Muhammad Sayaya

Governor Radda inspected the scene, where the charred remains of the patrol vehicle were still visible, and visited nearby hard-to-reach areas to engage with residents and gain firsthand insight into the security situation.

Speaking after the visit, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with security agencies and community leaders to enhance public safety and protect lives and property.

“The sacrifice of these brave men will not be in vain,” Radda said, pledging to intensify efforts to restore lasting peace across the state.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Internal Security, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, acknowledged the ongoing security challenges but pointed to recent military gains, particularly in Ruwan Godiya.

He said the governor’s visit formed part of a broader strategy to reassess and strengthen the state’s security architecture.

He urged residents to remain patient, prayerful, and supportive of government peace efforts.

Governor Radda also extended condolences to the families of the slain operatives, offering prayers for divine mercy on the departed and strength for their loved ones.

The attack highlights the persistent security threats facing rural communities in Katsina, where banditry continues to pose a significant challenge despite ongoing military and security operations.