Security forces in Katsina State have killed over 40 bandits after repelling a major attack on Guga community in Bakori Local Government Area, state officials said. Dr Nasir Muazu, the commissioner for internal security and home affairs, called the operation a watershed moment in the state's fight against organised crime.
The assault began around 5:40 pm on Sunday, July 26, when more than 200 armed gunmen stormed the village. The bandits, reportedly led by gang chief Idi Abasu Aiki and backed by the Ado Aleru faction from Zamfara State, launched what authorities described as a revenge attack.
According to Muazu, advance intelligence allowed security operatives to mobilise quickly and coordinate their response. The resulting gunfight forced the attackers to scatter after suffering severe losses.
"During the confrontation, more than 40 bandits were killed, along with several top commanders of the criminal group," Muazu stated. He added that nearly eight senior commanders died in the clash.
The commissioner revealed that bandit leader Idi Abasu Aiki sustained grave gunshot injuries thought to be fatal. Intelligence reports showed the attackers aimed to wipe out local vigilantes and Community Watch Corps members before advancing on Bakori town and surrounding settlements.
"Thanks to improved intelligence gathering and surveillance by the state government, security forces were able to take swift coordinated action," Muazu said. "This led to a fierce gun battle that forced the bandits to flee after suffering heavy casualties."
The operation followed another successful engagement on July 7, 2026, in Dawan Laila village where the same criminal network suffered a major blow at the hands of local vigilantes and the Community Watch Corps.
After Sunday's clash, security teams swept the region to recover abandoned weapons and equipment. Patrols and surveillance were ramped up across the affected zone to forestall fresh strikes.
The victory came with a steep price. Four vigilante members fell when the bandits ambushed them away from their main positions.
Muazu expressed the state government's sorrow over the deaths of the four defenders. "The state government expressed deep sorrow over the death of four members of the vigilante group, who sacrificed their lives to protect their community and region," he said.
The commissioner extended government condolences to grieving families and prayed for the souls of the fallen volunteers. Officials assured residents that peace had returned to Guga and surrounding areas.
"Peace has fully returned to the affected areas, and the government remains committed to strengthening collaboration with all security agencies to protect the lives and property of the people of Katsina State," Muazu affirmed.
