Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting
In a major counter-insurgency breakthrough, gallant joint security forces have successfully neutralized 30 armed bandits during a fierce coordinated operation in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The heavily armed bandits had launched simultaneous assaults on Kadisau, Raudama, and Sabon Layi communities around 5:00 PM on July 8th, unleashing terror and attempting to overrun the villages. However, their plans were swiftly thwarted by the rapid and decisive response of a joint task force comprising Police Mobile Force (PMF), military personnel, and Nigerian Air Force (NAF) components.
According to security sources, upon receiving actionable intelligence of the attacks, elite reinforcements were immediately mobilized from Dandume while air support units from the Nigerian Air Force were deployed for aerial combat. In the ensuing confrontation, dozens of bandits were forced into retreat, and 30 were eliminated via precise air strikes as they attempted to escape.
Tragically, the success came at a price.
Three brave Police Mobile Force personnel — Inspector Suleiman Ibrahim, Inspector Bello Bala, and Corporal Mohammed Lawal — paid the ultimate sacrifice. A civilian, Aliyu Sa’adu from Kadisau village, also lost his life in the attack. In Sabon Layi, two courageous soldiers laid down their lives defending the community, while another victim, Ya’u Aliyu, is currently receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained in battle.
Speaking on behalf of the Katsina State Government, a top official expressed deep condolences:
“We salute the bravery of our gallant forces and mourn the loss of our heroes. Their sacrifice shall not be in vain. Their families will receive full government support during this trying period.”
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda reiterated his unwavering resolve to wipe out banditry from Katsina State:
“We will not rest until every criminal element is eliminated. Our commitment to securing Katsina remains ironclad.”
The government has also assured that counter-banditry operations are being intensified, with close collaboration between federal and state security agencies to guarantee the safety of all residents.
Citizens have been urged to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to the security services.
“Together, we will overcome these threats and build a peaceful Katsina for all,” the government statement concluded.
Investigations into the coordinated attacks are ongoing, and the state government has promised to release further updates as developments unfold.