Katsina State security forces have rescued 27 people abducted by suspected bandits during an attack on Gamji Village in Sabuwa Local Government Area, in which a 70-year-old man was killed.
According to the Katsina State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, about 40 armed bandits led by a suspected gang leader, Kachalla Alhaji Bawa Kabir, invaded the community on October 16, 2026, on 20 motorcycles. They abducted 27 residents, mostly women, children and elderly people, and rustled six cows.
The ministry said troops of the 17 Brigade, working with local hunters and the Community Watch Corps, blocked escape routes to the Madaci forest enclave. The troops later engaged the assailants at Tashar Bawa forest and rescued all 27 victims.
The rescued residents were taken to the Machika Military Forward Operating Base for medical attention.
Joint security teams have since launched clearance operations to track down the remaining members of the gang and prevent possible reprisal attacks.
The state government commended the security personnel and community-based security groups for their swift response, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property across Katsina State.
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