In a tragic incident, nine security operatives have lost their lives due to attacks by bandits in the Faskari and Matazu Local Government Areas of Katsina State. These operatives, who were part of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps and Vigilante Corps, were ambushed in separate incidents between Yankara and Faskari on the evening of Friday, October 4, 2024. Additionally, two vigilante officers were also killed during these violent confrontations.
A source from Katsina, speaking anonymously to Punch, revealed the names of some of the deceased: Mubarak Shu’aibu Labo, Muhammad Hassan, Mubarak Shu’aibu, and another unidentified officer. The slain vigilante members include Babangida Bature, known as Babangida Doza, and Ibrahim Rishi.
In a related attack that same evening, vigilante members returning from Gwarjo to Yalwa were ambushed, resulting in the deaths of at least three officers, while another was left seriously injured. Jamilu Aliyu, the Secretary of the Vigilante group in Matazu, confirmed this attack to the media on Sunday.
Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru has expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen operatives. In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula, the governor praised the courage and dedication of the security personnel who died while serving their community.
“On October 4, 2024, at around 4 p.m., armed bandits ambushed a joint team of Community Watch Corps and Vigilante Corps members who were ensuring the safety of farmers harvesting crops near Unguwar Kafa along the Yankara-Faskari road,” the statement detailed.
“During the fierce firefight, which lasted over an hour, four members from the CWC and two from the Vigilante Corps were tragically killed. Our security operatives showed remarkable bravery and teamwork in thwarting this attack, undoubtedly saving numerous lives and protecting our diligent farmers.”
Governor Umaru emphasized, “These courageous individuals are true heroes of Katsina. Their sacrifices will be remembered, and we stand by their families during this challenging time, offering our full support.”
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