Armed bandits on motorcycles
In a brutal assault on Magajin-Wando village in Dandume Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State, armed bandits killed seven people late Friday night, September 5, 2025, plunging the community into fear.
The attack, which began around 11:00 p.m. and extended into the early hours of Saturday, saw gunmen open fire indiscriminately on residents, with reports indicating that five were killed on the spot and two others succumbed later to gunshot wounds.
Additionally, the assailants abducted three individuals—two women and a boy—further deepening the community’s anguish.
Katsina State Government, through its Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, confirmed the tragic incident in a statement issued on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in Katsina.
“The State Government confirmed a tragic incident that occurred last night, between 11:00 p.m., where seven lives were lost when bandits launched an attack on Magajin-Wando village in Dandume LGA,” Mu’azu said, lamenting the loss of life but noting the swift response that mitigated further devastation.
The Community Watch Corps (CWC), a local security outfit, played a pivotal role in repelling the attackers.
According to Mu’azu, their “swift and courageous intervention” prevented a potentially far worse outcome for the village.
However, the situation escalated when the bandits, having split into groups, ambushed CWC members as they evacuated the injured to a hospital.
“In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, their vehicle was riddled with bullets and set ablaze,” Mu’azu explained, noting that the corps members fought bravely, managed to escape, and ensured the injured reached safety despite the assault.
Preliminary findings suggest the ambush was a retaliatory act by the bandits, seeking vengeance for losses suffered during the initial clash with the CWC.
Mu’azu praised the CWC’s bravery, stating, “The government commends the sacrifice of the Community Watch Corps for their prompt response and their continued commitment to safeguarding vulnerable communities under very dangerous conditions.”
He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wished for the speedy recovery of those injured.
The state government reaffirmed its resolve to combat banditry, with Mu’azu emphasizing ongoing collaboration with the military, police, and other security agencies to “track down and dismantle the criminal networks behind these attacks.” He urged residents to remain vigilant and share timely information with authorities to bolster security efforts.
“Together with the courage of our security forces and the resilience of our people, we will defeat these enemies of peace and restore lasting security across Katsina State,” he said.
