Armed bandits have killed two police officers and four civilians in coordinated attacks on Unguwar Baki village and Sheme town in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State. At least five individuals were also abducted in the incidents.

Report indicates that the first attack occurred on February 27 at approximately 5:30 p.m. when about 200 heavily armed bandits stormed Unguwar Baki, shooting indiscriminately. Security forces, including troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA, police personnel, and local vigilantes, swiftly mobilized to repel the attack, engaging the assailants in a fierce gun battle.

Despite their efforts, the security forces sustained casualties, with Inspector Mainasara Usman and Corporal Abubakar Iliyasu of the 27 Police Mobile Force (PMF) among the fallen. The assailants also made away with one AK-47 rifle, a Type 06 rifle, and 60 rounds of live ammunition.

In addition to the police officers, four civilians, including Jibrin Yahuza, a staff member of the Katsina State Water Corporation, were killed. However, intelligence reports indicate that the bandits also suffered heavy losses, retreating into the forest with several of their dead and wounded comrades.

A security official involved in the operation stated, "The bandits encountered strong resistance and suffered significant casualties. Efforts are underway to track them down and recover the stolen weapons."

Five Abducted in Sheme Raid, Vigilante Leader Missing

In a separate incident, bandits launched another attack on Sheme town at about 1:50 a.m. on February 28, firing sporadically as they invaded the community. Security operatives were again deployed to counter the assault, forcing the attackers to flee into the nearby Shawu Forest while taking at least five captives.

During the exchange, a local vigilante member, Ado Isiyaku, 40, sustained a gunshot wound to the stomach and was rushed to Sheme Primary Health Center, where he is receiving treatment. Meanwhile, the commander of the local vigilante unit, Hassan Bajoga Sheme, 45, has been declared missing, prompting an ongoing search-and-rescue operation.

Authorities have assured residents that security efforts are being intensified to track down the perpetrators and rescue those abducted. "We are actively pursuing these criminals. Additional reinforcements have been deployed, and we will ensure justice is served," a security official stated.