From Agaju Madugba, Katsina
The Katsina State Government has confirmed the killing of two soldiers and three Mobile Police Force(MPF) officers by bandits during a confrontation with the hoodlums in Faskari Local Government on Tuesday.
A statement yesterday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mua’zu, notes that the slain officers were part of a joint security personnel who engaged hundreds of heavily armed bandits who simultaneously attacked the communities of Kadisau, Raudama and Sabon Layi at approximately 5:00pm on July 8, 2025.
The statement noted further that the security personnel successfully eliminated 30 bandits during the operation.
According to the statement, “in Sabon Layi, two courageous soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice while Ya’u Aliyu sustained injuries and he is currently receiving medical treatment.
“We lost three dedicated MPF personnel: Inspector Suleiman Ibrahim, Inspector Bello Bala and Corporal Mohammed Lawal, along with a civilian, Aliyu Sa’adu from Kadisau village.
“On behalf of the government and the people of Katsina State, I extend our deepest condolences to the families of our fallen heroes and the affected communities:“Their sacrifice will never be forgotten and their families will receive full government support during this difficult time.”
The statement explained that the operation was carried out based on intelligence report over banditry attacks on the communities.
“Upon receiving intelligence of these attacks, the security forces were immediately mobilized. Additional reinforcements from Dandume and the Nigerian Air Force were swiftly deployed to the affected areas.
“After intense confrontations, our gallant security forces successfully repelled the attackers, forcing them to retreat. Thirty of the criminals were neutralised through coordinated air strikes as they attempted to escape.
“While we celebrate the bravery of our security personnel, we mourn the loss of our heroes, who paid the ultimate price in defending our communities.
“I want to categorically assure all residents of Katsina State that Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s administration remains unwavering in our commitment to crush banditry and restore lasting peace to our state.
“We will not rest until every criminal element is eliminated from our territory.Similarly, our security operations are being intensified and we are working tirelessly with federal security agencies to ensure the safety of all citizens.
“We call on all residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies. Together, we will overcome these challenges and build a safer Katsina state for all.
“The investigation into these attacks continues and we will provide updates as they become available,” the Commissioner said.
Faskari is one of the several frontline LG of Katsina state, where bandits reign supreme. Some of the other flashpoints are: Dandume, Kankara, Sabuwa, Musawa, Batsari and Jibiya, among others.
The locations share boundaries with the Rugu forest, said to be a haven for bandit/terrorists.