Bandits have stepped up attacks across southern Katsina, killing residents, abducting farmers and rustling livestock despite a community-led peace deal.
Recent attacks in Bakori, Funtua, Faskari and Dandume have disrupted farming and trade, forced families out and left some too poor to pay ransom.
In Bakori, at least three people were killed and others wounded when gunmen attacked Jargaba and Kandarawa wards at about 9:30pm on Saturday. They invaded Gidan Na Kaura, Yar Tukunya, Unguwar Gambo and Gidan Sarkin, shooting residents and stealing livestock. Residents Aminu Mamuda and Aminu Magaji said many families had fled.
“We are still dealing with these people. If you walk just about a kilometre outside the town, you can encounter them. They either shoot someone or seize the motorcycle you are riding.
“Even last Friday, they abducted two of our people, and they are still in their custody. We also have other people who remain in their den,” he said.
In Dandume, 15 villages have reportedly been deserted. Five people were killed in Takalmawa, while others were abducted.
Funtua attacks saw residents abducted and later rescued, while one bandit and one resident were reportedly killed in separate gun battles.
In Faskari, attacks left about five farmers dead, 13 abducted and livestock stolen. Four bandits were reportedly neutralised.
Police spokesman DSP Sadiq Aliyu said the incidents would be investigated.
Last month, 13 people were killed in Kankia after residents refused a N1 million levy. District Head Alhaji Salim Yusuf Yakubu warned communities against negotiating with bandits without government approval.
“The people should not enter into any agreement with bandits without the consent of the local and state authorities. What happened has shown us the danger of taking such decisions without involving the local authorities and the government.”
“The wrong decision has brought serious consequences to the people. We have lost lives, people have been abducted, animals have been rustled, and many residents have been forced to flee their homes.”
