Bandit attacks force residents to abandon 15 villages in Katsina
Renewed Attacks in Katsina State Prompt Mass Displacement of Villages
At least 15 villages in the Dandume Local Government Area of Katsina State have been abandoned amid a resurgence of attacks by bandits. Local residents report that insecurity has escalated in Dandume, Funtua, and Bakori areas, particularly affecting communities in southern Katsina.
Residents described an atmosphere of fear that has restricted movement and disrupted farming and other economic activities. One resident from Funtua noted that attacks have persisted even with security personnel in the area.
“The situation now indicates that there is no safe place in Funtua town,” the resident said, recounting a recent incident where bandits seized cattle from Unity Bank.
On Thursday, security forces reportedly engaged bandits in a gunfight after an attempted cattle raid in the MTD area. Although law enforcement managed to thwart the attempt, gunfire also erupted in the Unguwar Shanu neighborhood, resulting in one bandit being killed and a civilian casualty.
Acknowledging the challenges, the resident added, “The security personnel are doing their best. They respond when called and provide assistance.”
In Bakori, more than 10 towns and villages, including Kakumi, Sabon Layi, Gidan Jaura, and Garanguzai, are grappling with similar threats. One resident expressed growing concern about travel safety between communities.
“We are still facing these attacks. If you walk just a kilometre outside the town, you risk encountering them,” he said, highlighting a recent incident where two individuals were abducted.
Residents in Dandume echoed these sentiments, reporting almost daily bandit incursions over the past two weeks, with claims of over 100 people abducted within that timeframe.
“Every day brings fear. Some days they come once, some days twice, taking livestock and people,” one resident stated.
He recounted a personal experience involving his son’s abduction, for which a ransom was paid in addition to the loss of more than 30 cattle.
The persistent violence has led to significant displacement, with many communities vacating their homes for safer locations. According to a local resident, about 15 villages have been left entirely deserted due to the ongoing threats.
