Bandits have killed over 24 people in Katsina State, including farmers, other residents, and a member of a local security group. These attacks happened in different parts of Kankara Local Government Area and have caused fear among the local population.
A resident who spoke anonymously said that the attacks took place about six days ago. The bandits stormed several villages such as Yargoje, Kwakware, Danmarke, Gidan Dawa, and Burdugau. During these attacks, around 20 farmers lost their lives while working on their farms. Some villagers were taken away by the attackers, and the animals used by farmers for ploughing were also stolen.
Another person from the community shared that on Monday, the bandits returned and launched another attack on Marmara village. They clashed with members of a local security group called C’watch and the Civilian Joint Task Force. One C’watch officer was killed in the fight, and two members of the Civilian JTF were injured.
After the confrontation, the attackers entered the village and killed three more people. That same Monday night, they moved toward other villages east of Kwakware. There, they kidnapped more residents and rustled additional animals.
A resident from Kankara who also didn’t want his name mentioned said the reason for these constant attacks could be linked to peace agreements reached in nearby local government areas. He explained that as long as some areas have peace deals while others do not, bandits will likely keep attacking places where there is no agreement.