Suspected bandits have killed four residents and abducted at least 45 others in Maikuma village, located in Dandume Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The tragic incident occurred on Sunday night, when dozens of heavily armed bandits stormed the village on motorcycles, unleashing terror as they moved from house to house.
Attack Lasted for Hours
According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers—numbering over 100—operated for several hours, shooting sporadically and abducting residents before retreating into the forest with their captives.
While the Katsina State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement, the Executive Chairman of Dandume LGA, Basiru Musa, confirmed the incident to reporters.
“The bandits came in their numbers—100 or more. Their intention was to kill and abduct as many persons as possible,” Musa said.
“They killed four persons and abducted about 43. But others are saying the figure could be 45 or more.”
Musa revealed that local security forces were alerted about the impending attack. While they did respond, their movement was restricted due to jurisdictional boundaries, forcing them to retreat after the bandits fled into the forest.
“The DPO and military unit responded quickly when I raised the alarm. Unfortunately, they couldn’t go beyond a certain boundary and had to pull back,” he added.
The council chairman lamented the frequent attacks on communities in Dandume and surrounding areas, urging the state and federal governments to ramp up security operations in the region.
“We need a more robust security presence and strategy. Our people are living in fear,” Musa emphasized.
The attack in Maikuma adds to the growing list of violent incidents in Northwest Nigeria, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted rural communities for ransom, causing widespread displacement and insecurity.
