Fear has gripped residents of Katsina State after suspected bandits abducted more than a dozen women and young children during a late-night attack on Sabon Layi community in Bakori Local Government Area.
The raid, which unfolded at about 9:45pm yesterday, saw heavily armed attackers storm the quiet settlement and target specific households. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the victims estimated at 15 or more include breastfeeding mothers and infants who were taken alongside them.
According to local sources, the assailants headed directly to homes belonging to a man identified as Mallam Aliyu and his younger brother. The attackers reportedly moved with speed, rounding up women and children before retreating into nearby forest areas.
Attempts by local security operatives to intercept the kidnappers and rescue the victims were unsuccessful, leaving families in anguish and uncertainty.
Residents, already weary from repeated attacks, have voiced frustration over what they describe as a worsening security situation. Many are now calling on authorities to urgently intervene and restore safety in the area.
The latest abduction has intensified concerns about the effectiveness of recent peace agreements struck between some local councils and armed groups. Despite those efforts, incidents of kidnapping, killings, and cattle rustling continue to plague parts of Katsina State.
As of the time of filing this report, the Katsina State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident, further deepening anxiety among residents.
