Security operatives in Katsina State have rescued 27 residents abducted by suspected bandits during an attack on Gamji village in Sabuwa Local Government Area, although a 70-year-old man was killed in the incident.
The state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, disclosed the development in a statement, explaining that the attack occurred in the early hours of October 16, 2026. He said the assailants also made away with six cows during the invasion.
According to Muazu, approximately 40 armed bandits, allegedly led by Kachalla Alhaji Bawa Kabir and travelling on 20 motorcycles, stormed the community and abducted 27 people, predominantly women, children and elderly residents. He identified the deceased victim as Alhaji Saleh Kasim, who was reportedly shot dead during the attack.
The commissioner stated, “The Katsina State Government wishes to inform the public that a mass kidnapping attempt at Gamji village, Sabuwa LGA, has been foiled by our security forces.
“In the early hours of 16th October, 2026, about 40 armed bandits led by Kachalla Alhaji Bawa Kabir, riding on 20 motorcycles, invaded Gamji village.
“They abducted 27 residents, mostly women, children and the elderly, and rustled 6 cows. Sadly, one 70-year-old man, Alhaji Saleh Kasim, was shot dead during the attack.
“Following credible intelligence, troops of the 17 Brigade, in collaboration with local hunters and the Community Watch Corps, immediately blocked all escape routes to the Madaci forest enclave.
“At about 1800hrs of the same day, troops engaged the bandits at Tashar Bawa forest and successfully rescued all 27 kidnapped victims. The victims have been moved to the Machika Military Forward Operating Base for medical attention.
“Joint security teams have commenced clearance operations to flush out remnants of the criminal gang and prevent any reprisal attack on the community.
“The government of Katsina state under Governor Dikko Umaru Radda remains resolute and decisive in securing every part of the state. We commend our gallant troops and our community security structures for this swift response.”
