Gunmen kill Katsina Gov’s aide, wife, abduct 28 others

In a series of harrowing incidents across Katsina State, bandits have left a trail of violence and despair. On August 19, armed assailants targeted the home of Salisu Ango, the liaison officer to Governor Umar Dikko Radda, in Gyaza village, Kankia Local Government Area. Ango, a former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers for the Kankia Chapter, and his first wife were killed in the attack. The bandits also abducted Ango’s second wife during the raid.

In a separate act of banditry on the same day, the Tashar Gamji community in Kankia was subjected to a night raid. The intruders moved through the village, looting domestic animals, food supplies, and other valuables.

The violence continued with a separate attack on Shirgi community in Batsari Local Government Area. Bandits struck on Sunday night, resulting in the death of one person, injuries to another, and the abduction of 28 individuals. The attackers also stole several domestic animals. An anonymous resident reported that the bandits specifically targeted women and children, and during the raid, Amadu Suru was fatally shot while attempting to protect his livestock.

The Katsina State Police Command has confirmed the attacks in Kankia but has yet to verify the details of the Shirgi incident. An official statement is anticipated once the Divisional Police Officer in Batsari provides a comprehensive report. The string of attacks highlights the ongoing security challenges facing the region and underscores the urgent need for increased protection and intervention.