Gunmen Kill Seven, Kidnap 100 in Raid on Nigerian Village

In Summary

• In Katsina State, Nigeria, gunmen killed at least seven people and kidnapped 100 in a raid on Maidabino village.
• The attackers, referred to locally as bandits, are known for their frequent raids in northwestern Nigeria, targeting residents and travelers for ransom.
• Arriving on motorbikes, the gunmen blocked roads, destroyed property, and caused residents to flee.
• The casualties included the burning of two children, and significant loss of property and livestock was reported.
• The Katsina state police confirmed the attack and deaths, and are currently investigating the incident.

DETAILS

Abuja, Nigeria- In a tragic escalation of violence in northwestern Nigeria, a rural community in Katsina State was the target of a deadly raid on Saturday night, resulting in at least seven deaths and the kidnapping of approximately 100 people. The village of Maidabino, under Danmusa local government, faced a harrowing attack by gunmen known as bandits, who have been terrorizing the region.

Residents reported that the gunmen arrived on motorbikes and began shooting sporadically, causing panic and forcing many to flee for their lives. The attack, which lasted over six hours, left a trail of destruction including burnt shops, vehicles, and stolen livestock. According to Hassan Aliyu, a local resident, the attackers also burned two children in a devastating show of cruelty.

Auwalu Ismail, another affected resident, detailed how the attackers strategically blocked all roads leading to the village before commencing their assault. He lamented the loss of his property and the abduction of his wife, along with many other women and children.

The Katsina state police, through spokesperson Abubakar Aliyu Sadiq, confirmed the severity of the attack and the death toll but did not provide information on the missing residents. The police have launched an investigation into the incident.

In the aftermath, the community remains in shock and fear, with many men staying behind in the village, anxious for any news of their abducted family members. Muhammad Sani, whose sister was among those kidnapped, voiced the despair and helplessness felt by the survivors who are now waiting for any updates on their loved ones.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced in combating the lawlessness of armed gangs in Nigeria's northwestern states, which continue to suffer from frequent and brutal attacks that disrupt lives and increase the region’s instability.