In a distressing incident, suspected bandits, disguised in military camouflage attire, targeted Tashar Na-Gulle village in Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State, resulting in the abduction of 29 individuals.
The attack, executed by over 60 armed hoodlums wielding AK-47 rifles, unfolded around 10:00 pm on Sunday, as they forcefully entered the village.
According to an eyewitness who spoke to Channels Television, the bandits strategically donned army uniforms to instill a false sense of security and facilitate their invasion. The assailants fired shots upon arrival, chasing residents and creating panic.
In a sinister twist, they claimed to be security personnel offering assistance, adding to the confusion and making it difficult for villagers to discern the threat.
Confirming the incident on Monday, the Katsina Police Command spokesman, Abubakar Sadiq, assured that normalcy has been restored in the affected area.
The State Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Musa, has taken decisive steps by deploying operational assets to facilitate the safe rescue of the kidnapped victims.
Sadiq emphasized that ongoing efforts are dedicated to ensuring the victims’ safety, with updates on the rescue mission to be communicated in due course.
“Further development will be communicated in due course, please,” he said.
The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region, demanding concerted efforts to address the menace of banditry and protect vulnerable communities.
Ada Peter
