Crime

Four Killed, 12 Abducted as Bandits Launch Fresh Attacks in Katsina Despite Peace Talks

Published by admin on January 26th, 2026.

Four Killed, 12 Abducted as Bandits Launch Fresh Attacks in Katsina Despite Peace Talks

At least four people have lost their lives, while no fewer than 12 others have been kidnapped following renewed attacks by armed bandits in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The latest violence happened on Friday night when heavily armed attackers invaded Dan Nakwabo and Madobai villages, despite earlier assurances that peace efforts had reduced insecurity in the area. Witnesses said the gunmen arrived around 9:00 p.m., shooting into the air and moving through the communities, causing fear and confusion among residents.

In Dan Nakwabo, two people—a man and a woman, said to be children of a popular businessman, Alhaji Dan Azimi—were killed during the attack. Two other residents were also taken away by the assailants. In nearby Madobai village, no deaths were reported, but four people were kidnapped in what locals described as a well-planned operation.

Residents said the attackers operated freely for several minutes before escaping into surrounding forests without any resistance. Many families ran into nearby bushes, while others locked themselves inside their homes as gunshots echoed through the night.

By Saturday morning, the victims in Dan Nakwabo were buried according to Islamic tradition, as the community mourned their loss. A resident said the incident had destroyed the little sense of safety people felt had returned after recent peace discussions.

Reports also show that attacks in Kankara and nearby communities in recent days have led to four deaths and at least 12 abductions. The area remains one of the most troubled parts of Katsina State, having suffered years of violence, cattle rustling, mass kidnappings, and displacement of residents.

Although the government has announced several peace initiatives and negotiations with armed groups in the past, many locals say the attacks continue with little improvement in security.

Meanwhile, controversy has grown in the state following the emergence of an official document showing that the Katsina State Government took steps to secure the release of several suspected bandits facing trial.

The document, dated January 2, 2026, and marked “Secret,” was issued by the Ministry of Justice and sent to the Chief Judge of the state. It requested the support of the Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee to help facilitate the release of detained suspects.

The letter, signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Abdur-Rahman Umar, revealed that 48 suspects accused of bandit-related crimes were submitted for possible release. The move was said to be part of conditions attached to an ongoing peace agreement between local governments and armed groups.

It also stated that while a few suspects had appeared in court, many were still being held at different magistrate courts. Another list containing about 22 inmates facing trial in higher courts was also submitted for similar consideration.

The Ministry urged the Chief Judge to act on the request, citing provisions of the state’s criminal justice law. Later, the state government confirmed the document and explained that the plan to release about 70 suspects was meant to support peace efforts.

According to the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, the decision was aimed at strengthening agreements reached with repentant bandits in several local government areas. He added that the wider peace deal, which covers at least 15 local councils, had already helped secure the release of about 1,000 abducted persons.