A joint security operation involving the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilante groups has foiled a planned mass abduction in Katsina State, killing at least 24 bandits and rescuing intended victims.
The operation took place in Gidan Bawa village, Kandarawa Ward, Bakori Local Government Area, following intelligence reports of an impending attack by armed bandits.
Security sources revealed that the attackers, numbering about 40 and reportedly loyal to notorious bandit leader Isiya Kwashen Garwa, had planned to invade the community and abduct a large number of residents, particularly women and children.
According to the source, the plot was designed to mirror previous large-scale kidnappings recorded in parts of the country and create widespread fear among residents.
Acting on the intelligence, DSS operatives coordinated with members of the Katsina Community Watch Corps and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) to launch a pre-emptive operation against the criminals.
The security team reportedly ambushed the bandits before they could execute their plan, resulting in a fierce confrontation that left 24 of the attackers dead.
The operation also led to the rescue of villagers who had already been seized during the raid, while 19 stolen cattle were recovered.
Authorities said efforts were ongoing to track and apprehend other members of the criminal group who escaped during the operation.
The successful mission highlights growing collaboration between conventional security agencies and community-based security outfits in tackling banditry and kidnapping across northern Nigeria.
