Katsina Traditional Rulers Commend Security Forces After Foiling Mass Abduction

KATSINA — Traditional rulers in Katsina State have praised the military, Department of State Services (DSS) and community vigilantes after security forces foiled another planned mass abduction in Bakori Local Government Area.

The latest incident occurred in Unguwan Hudu village, Kakumi Ward, where armed bandits reportedly attempted to abduct residents. Intelligence provided to security agencies helped security personnel block the attackers’ route, forcing them to abandon their operation and flee.

According to reports, 18 people were rescued, including 14 females and four males, among them children and toddlers. A 14-year-old rescued victim reportedly sustained a gunshot injury and was taken to Bakori General Hospital for treatment.

A district head in Bakori praised the cooperation between security agencies, traditional institutions and local communities, saying the partnership had helped prevent attacks on farming communities.

The incident comes less than two weeks after security forces reportedly stopped another planned mass abduction in Gidan Iyado, also in Bakori LGA. The Katsina State Government said 18 suspected bandits were killed during that earlier operation.

The traditional rulers said continued cooperation among communities and security agencies remains important as authorities work to protect rural residents and farmers from attacks.

Monafrika angle: The latest rescue highlights the importance of intelligence sharing and cooperation between security agencies and local communities in protecting vulnerable communities in Katsina. At the same time, the repeated abduction attempts show that insecurity remains a serious challenge for residents across parts of the state.