Bandits Defy Peace Deal, Kill Resident, Kidnap Imam Katsina

[Mudhab]

Armed bandits have carried out fresh attacks in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State, killing one resident and kidnapping several people. The attacks happened despite a recent peace agreement reportedly reached between community leaders and armed groups before the start of the Ramadan fasting period.

According to reports, the first attack happened around midnight on Thursday in the Gangaren Mangwarori area of Kankara town. Gunmen suddenly invaded the community and began shooting into the air to frighten residents.

During the raid, the attackers killed a respected member of the community identified as Malam Surajo. They also abducted an elderly woman known as Gwamma before fleeing the area. Witnesses said the gunmen arrived on motorcycles and operated in the community for several minutes.

A few hours later, at about 6:00 a.m. on Friday morning, the bandits launched another attack in Marabar Gurbi community, also in Kankara. Residents said the attackers kidnapped several villagers during the early morning raid.

Among those abducted was the community's second imam, Malam Jamilu Marabar Gurbi. He was reportedly on his way to the mosque for the Subhi (Fajr) prayer after observing Sahoor, the early morning meal during Ramadan, when the gunmen intercepted and kidnapped him.

The latest attacks have increased fear among residents in Kankara, an area that has long struggled with bandit violence. Many residents say the incidents have raised doubts about the effectiveness of the peace deal, as communities continue to face killings and kidnappings even during the Ramadan period.

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