No fewer than 16 people are feared dead, with many others still missing, after armed bandits attacked Kiliya village near Bagagadi in the Dutsinma Local Government Area of Katsina State on Friday.
- +Sixteen villagers killed in reprisal attack by bandits in Kastina
- +…as over 400 residents flee their homes
The assault took place shortly after residents had performed the Juma’at prayers and were relaxing in the village, exchanging greetings in the spirit of the ongoing Sallah celebrations.
…as over 400 residents flee their homes
The assault took place shortly after residents had performed the Juma’at prayers and were relaxing in the village, exchanging greetings in the spirit of the ongoing Sallah celebrations.
A survivor who spoke with journalists described the horror of the attack. Following the incident, panic has gripped the community, with over 400 residents fleeing to Bagagadi village for safety, while others sought refuge in Radda.
According to him, two bandits arrived on a motorcycle first. As panic spread and villagers tried to flee, the attackers ordered them to stop before opening fire indiscriminately.
“I had just bought a bowl of local drink from a boy after prayers and was sitting with others when the bandits arrived,” the witness recounted.
People started running, but they shouted at us not to run. Suddenly, they began shooting. The boy and I ran into a nearby house to hide. We heard screams and continuous gunshots. When it finally stopped, we came out and saw about 16 bodies, including some of my uncles and cousins.”
The source added that the gunmen appeared to have targeted residents and passersby near a mechanic’s workshop before expanding their attack.
Residents say several bodies were later discovered on nearby farmlands, suggesting some villagers were killed while working. A 14-year-old boy who witnessed the initial phase of the attack told reporters that more bandits joined the first two after shooting began.
