Community hunters have killed 14 suspected bandits during a gun battle in Gidan Wawo village, Kakumi Ward, Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State, while rescuing three victims.
The Katsina State Government said one hunter was killed and another sustained minor gunshot injuries during the operation on Friday, 23 October 2026.
The attack followed intelligence reports that 26 armed bandits on 13 motorcycles, led by a man identified as Isiya Kwashen Garwa, were moving towards Dawan Laila forest in Bakori LGA.
In a press release issued on 23 October by the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Mu’azu, the government said security assets in the area were placed on alert after the intelligence report to prevent a planned mass kidnapping in neighbouring communities.
At about 1.31pm on the same day, authorities received reports that the bandits had attacked a vehicle belonging to Jamilu Lawal, 50, who was travelling with three other people from Kakumi Ward to Illela market in Sokoto State.
The government said the attackers set the vehicle on fire, prompting hunters from Gidan Wawo to mobilise and confront them.
“The operation led to the neutralization of fourteen (14) bandits,” the statement said.
However, the confrontation resulted in the death of 29-year-old community hunter Mohammed Ibrahim Jidda, whom the government described as having paid the supreme price in defence of the community.
Another hunter, 25-year-old Usman Sunday, sustained minor gunshot injuries and is receiving treatment.
Jamilu Lawal was burnt to death inside the vehicle during the rescue operation, while the three other occupants were rescued, according to the statement.
The state government also warned of a possible reprisal attack following the casualties suffered by the bandits.
“Intelligence has revealed plans for a possible reprisal attack by the bandits following the heavy casualties suffered,” the statement said.
It added that the government was working with security agencies to prevent further attacks and protect residents in the area.
“The state government, in collaboration with all security agencies, has put in place appropriate countermeasures to neutralize any further threats in the area,” it said.
The government commended security operatives and community hunters for their response, while urging residents to remain calm and provide credible information to security agencies.
The statement was signed by Dr Nasir Mu’azu, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Katsina State.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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