Tension in Kankara as armed bandits kill eight, abduct many in Katsina

There was heightened tension in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State following a series of attacks by armed bandits that left at least eight people dead, several others wounded, and scores abducted between Friday and yesterday.

A local source, speaking to Sunday Vanguard, reported that the bandits drove off two trucks filled with people, one earlier in the morning and another shortly after. “To escape these ruthless criminals, many villagers have fled into the forest, and some were killed in the process,” the source added.

The bandits reportedly took their numerous captives to their hideouts as many residents continued to flee for their lives. It was learned that multiple communities in the area were targeted during the attacks.

A credible source identified the bandit responsible for the assaults as Bambara, a notorious kingpin from Gidan Gamji, who is believed to have significant influence in the regions of Powa, Jeka, and Masalawa.

At the time of filing this report, the Katsina Police Command had not been reached for confirmation of the attacks.