Gunmen affiliated with criminal gangs launched a devastating attack on Gidan Boka village in northwestern Nigeria, claiming 26 lives, including four policemen, and abducting numerous individuals. The assault, occurring in Kankara district, highlights the worsening insecurity in regions like Katsina due to the activities of heavily armed gangs.
These gangs, often referred to as bandits, have strongholds in forests across Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, and Niger states. They descended upon Gidan Boka village on motorcycles, targeting residents, mainly women and children.
Anas Isa, the political administrator of Kankara district, confirmed the grim toll, noting civilian casualties alongside local vigilantes and law enforcement personnel.
Law enforcement agencies in Katsina confirmed the attack, reporting casualties among police officers and members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps. Additionally, violence spilled over to nearby Nakwabo village, claiming five lives of fleeing individuals.
This incident mirrors a broader trend of escalating violence, particularly in states like Katsina and Zamfara. Just last month, similar attacks in Katsina state’s Sabuwa district resulted in 25 deaths, primarily among local vigilantes.
Analysts and officials express concerns over the bandits’ potential alignment with jihadist groups, exacerbating Nigeria’s security challenges.