By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Suspected bandits killed at least 16 people, injured several others, and displaced more than 400 residents in Kiliya village, Dutsinma Local Government Area of Katsina State, on Friday afternoon. The attackers stormed the community shortly after Juma’at prayers during Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, opened fire on residents, and forced survivors to flee to neighbouring villages.
Terror Strikes After Friday Prayers
Residents described scenes of panic and confusion as armed men arrived on motorcycles and invaded the village.
One resident, who requested anonymity, said villagers were relaxing after prayers when two gunmen entered the community.
“People started running when they saw them, but the gunmen ordered everyone to stop. Moments later, they moved toward a mechanic’s house and began shooting residents and passersby,” he said.
The witness explained that he escaped by hiding inside a nearby house.
“After the Friday prayers, we were sitting together when I bought a bowl of local drink from a young vendor. Suddenly, the bandits arrived. The boy and I ran into a house and hid. While inside, we heard screams and gunshots. When we came out, we found about 16 bodies, including some of my uncles and cousins,” he said.
Additional Gunmen Intensify Assault
Another eyewitness said more attackers arrived shortly after the initial invasion, worsening the violence.
According to residents, the reinforcement enabled the bandits to spread across the village and target more victims.
Several residents remain missing, raising concerns that the death toll could increase. Villagers also reported discovering bodies on surrounding farmlands, suggesting that some victims were attacked while working.
Over 400 Residents Flee Homes
The attack triggered a mass exodus from Kiliya village.
Residents said more than 400 people fled to nearby Bagagadi and Radda villages for safety.
In Bagagadi, community members opened their homes to displaced families.
One resident disclosed that over 30 women and children from Kiliya were sheltering in his house.
Revenge Attack Suspected
Local sources believe the attack may have been a reprisal by bandits.
They claimed villagers or local vigilantes recently killed two suspected members of a notorious criminal gang operating in the area.
“From all indications, this appears to be a revenge attack. Two bandits were reportedly killed recently, and they were believed to be members of a notorious gang. That may have triggered this brutal retaliation against the village,” a source said.
Police Yet to Issue Official Statement
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not released an official statement on the incident.
However, the spokesman for the Katsina State Police Command, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, said the report had not reached the command.
He assured residents that the police would provide updates after receiving full details of the attack.
Katsina Government Reassures Residents
Meanwhile, the Katsina State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring security across the state.
Speaking during the 2026 Eid-el-Adha Durbar Festival, known as Hawan Sarki, Deputy Governor Faruk Jobe acknowledged ongoing security challenges but expressed confidence in government efforts.
“Our government will not relent until every community sleeps with two eyes closed,” he said.
Growing Security Concerns in Katsina
The latest attack highlights the persistent security challenges facing many communities in Katsina State.
Residents continue to face recurring bandit attacks, kidnappings, killings, and displacement despite ongoing security operations.
