The Katsina State Police Command has successfully repelled a late-night bandit attack on two communities in Dandume Local Government Area, arresting one suspected bandit and rescuing two injured residents.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at about 10:00 p.m., targeted Unguwar Bido and Unguwar Kanawa villages. According to the police, a large group of heavily armed bandits invaded the communities, causing panic among residents before security operatives intervened.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, who said the attack was foiled following a swift response by officers in the area.
He explained that the police received a distress call from residents shortly after the attackers stormed the villages. The call immediately triggered action from the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Dandume, who mobilized a team of officers to the scene.
“Upon receipt of the report, the DPO Dandume swiftly mobilized police teams and responded to the scene,” the statement said.
On arrival, the police operatives engaged the attackers in what was described as a fierce gun battle. The exchange of gunfire forced the bandits to retreat, abandoning their operation and fleeing into nearby areas.
According to the police, the attackers suffered casualties during the confrontation, although the exact number was not confirmed. One suspected bandit was arrested at the scene and is currently in custody as investigations continue.
Despite the success of the operation, the attack left two residents injured. The victims, whose identities were not disclosed, were shot during the invasion before the arrival of security personnel.
Police said both individuals were quickly taken to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment and are responding well.
The Commissioner of Police in Katsina State, CP Ali Umar Fage, commended the officers involved in the operation for their bravery and quick response.
He praised the DPO and his team for acting swiftly and professionally, noting that their efforts helped prevent what could have been a more serious situation.
The Commissioner also ordered a full investigation into the incident and directed security operatives to launch a manhunt for the fleeing bandits.
He assured residents that the police would continue to pursue those responsible and take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of lives and property in the state.
The police command further called on members of the public to remain alert and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could help prevent future attacks.
Residents were advised to report any suspicious movement or individuals to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency numbers.
The latest incident highlights the ongoing security challenges facing parts of northern Nigeria, particularly in states like Katsina, Zamfara, and Kaduna, where banditry has remained a major concern in recent years.
Bandits, often operating in large groups and armed with sophisticated weapons, have been known to attack rural communities, carry out kidnappings, and rustle livestock. These activities have disrupted farming and daily life, forcing many residents to flee their homes.
Katsina State, which shares a border with the Niger Republic, has been one of the areas most affected by bandit attacks. Over the years, both federal and state authorities have introduced various measures to tackle the problem, including increased security operations, community policing, and collaboration with local vigilante groups.
Despite these efforts, attacks still occur, often at night when communities are more vulnerable. Security agencies have continued to emphasise the importance of timely information from residents, which can help them respond quickly to threats.
Local residents in the affected communities have expressed relief following the intervention of the police. Some community members said the presence of security operatives helped restore calm and prevented further damage.
However, they also called for increased patrols and a stronger security presence in the area to prevent future attacks.
They also stress the need for continued investment in intelligence gathering, training, and equipment for security agencies to improve their effectiveness.
The Federal Government has repeatedly stated its commitment to addressing insecurity across the country, with ongoing military and police operations targeting criminal groups in different regions.
In recent months, there have been reports of increased collaboration between security agencies, including the police, military, and other paramilitary organisations, to tackle banditry and other forms of crime.
For residents of Unguwar Bido and Unguwar Kanawa, the events of Tuesday night serve as a reminder of the risks they face, but also of the importance of staying vigilant and working closely with security agencies.
As investigations continue and efforts are made to track down the fleeing suspects, the police have reassured the public that they remain committed to protecting communities and maintaining law and order.
The Katsina State Police Command said it would not relent in its efforts to combat crime and ensure that those responsible for attacks are brought to justice.