Security forces in Katsina State have neutralized 12 armed bandits and recovered a cache of weapons and stolen livestock during a coordinated joint operation in the Kurfi-Safana axis.

The offensive, carried out in the early hours of Tuesday, 18th June 2025, followed credible intelligence on bandit activities in the area. According to a statement issued by Dr. Nasiru Mua’zu, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, the operation was launched in response to an attack on Rahamawa village via Kuraye District in Charanchi Local Government Area.

The attackers, identified as armed bandits, stormed the village around 5:40 AM, inflicting severe injuries on a 60-year-old resident, Alhaji Danmalam, and rustling 22 cattle.

Joint patrol teams comprising personnel from the Police, Nigerian Army, Community Watch Corps, and local vigilantes pursued the criminals and engaged them in a fierce gun duel at Dutsen Falale, within the Kurfi-Safana forest zone.

The ensuing gunfight led to the death of 12 bandits, and the recovery of five AK-47 rifles, assorted ammunition, and all 22 rustled cattle.

Tragically, Alhaji Danmalam, the initial victim of the attack, later succumbed to his injuries at the Primary Health Centre in Charanchi. One soldier sustained injuries and is receiving treatment, while a member of the vigilante group lost his life during the exchange.

The Commissioner extended condolences on behalf of Governor Dikko Umar Radda to the bereaved families, praying for eternal rest for the deceased and quick recovery for the injured.

“This successful operation is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Katsina State Government and its security agencies to protect lives and property,” Dr. Mua’zu stated.

He added that investigations are ongoing and further updates will be made available to the public in due course.