In a devastating attack in Nigeria’s northwestern Katsina State, 21 members of a government-backed militia were killed by an armed gang. The ambush occurred on Friday night in the Safana district's Bawure village, according to local authorities. The militia members were returning from a condolence visit to the family of a deceased colleague when their convoy was intercepted and attacked.
Police spokesperson Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu confirmed the casualties, describing the incident as a premeditated and violent assault. “Tragically, 21 lives were lost in this attack. We are actively pursuing the perpetrators to bring them to justice,” he stated.
The Katsina region, along with other areas in northwestern and central Nigeria, has become a hotspot for violent activities by armed criminal groups, often referred to locally as "bandits." These gangs frequently carry out raids on rural communities, resulting in mass killings, kidnappings, and widespread destruction of property. Operating from remote camps within vast forested regions that span Katsina, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger states, they have also gained international infamy for abducting students in large numbers over the past several years.
In response to escalating violence, Katsina State Governor Dikko Umar Radda established the Katsina Community Watch Corps (KCWC) in 2023. This initiative enlisted around 2,000 volunteers tasked with supporting the military and police in combating gang-related violence. Despite these efforts, the region continues to grapple with security challenges, with incidents like this ambush highlighting the ongoing threat posed by armed groups.
The recent attack serves as a grim reminder of the persistent insecurity facing parts of Nigeria. It underscores the urgent need for enhanced security strategies and coordinated efforts to restore stability and protect communities in affected regions.