Ismail Abdulazeez Reporting
Tragedy struck in the late hours of last night when armed bandits invaded Magajin Wando village in Dandume Local Government Area of Katsina State, leaving seven people dead. The attack, which occurred between 11:00 p.m. and midnight, was, however, repelled by the swift and courageous intervention of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (CWC).
According to reports confirmed by the state government, the bandits stormed the community in large numbers but were met with stiff resistance from the CWC, preventing what could have been a more catastrophic outcome. Several residents were injured during the attack and were being evacuated for treatment when tragedy struck again.
On their way to the hospital, the injured victims and security team were ambushed by the same group of bandits, who had split into factions. In the fierce gun duel that ensued, the corps’ vehicle was riddled with bullets and eventually set ablaze by the criminals. Despite the intensity of the assault, the CWC fought valiantly, escaped the ambush, and ensured the safe return of the wounded.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the ambush was a retaliatory move by the bandits, who had lost several of their members during the initial confrontation in Magajin Wando.
In a statement issued through the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, the Katsina State Government lauded the bravery and sacrifice of the Community Watch Corps, acknowledging their resilience in safeguarding rural communities under perilous conditions.
“We commend the courage of the Community Watch Corps for their prompt response and continued commitment to protecting our people. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and pray for the quick recovery of the injured,” the statement read.
The government also reassured residents of its determination to intensify security operations in collaboration with the military, police, and other security agencies to dismantle the criminal networks terrorizing rural communities.
Citizens were further urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and useful information to aid ongoing operations.
“With the courage of our security forces and the resilience of our people, we will defeat these enemies of peace and restore lasting security across Katsina State,” the government affirmed.
