Gunmen, believed to be bandits, have killed two security operatives, including a member of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps and a vigilante, in an attack on Thursday, November 7, in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State. The attackers also left five others injured in what appeared to be a coordinated assault across three quarters in Jibia township.

The gunmen launched their attacks at around 9:15 pm, targeting the Ka’ida, Unguwar One Boy, and Danmarke quarters within Jibia. According to the police, the injured victims were quickly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

In a statement released on Friday, Katsina State Police spokesman, ASP Abubakar Sadiq, confirmed the incident and highlighted the quick response by local security forces. The police, in collaboration with the military, members of the Katsina Community Watch Corps, and vigilantes, managed to repel the attackers. The response led to a prolonged gun battle that lasted over an hour, with the attackers eventually retreating due to the superior firepower and tactical advantage of the joint security forces.

The operation, which was led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Jibia, resulted in the successful rescue of 16 people who had been held captive by the bandits. However, the police did not specify the number of casualties among the attackers.

Abubakar assured the public that security agencies, in partnership with other relevant stakeholders, are working diligently to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack. The Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Musa, also reiterated the police’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of residents in the state.