A member of katsina state community watch corps and a vigilante died as security operatives engaged bandits in gun duel in the Jibia Local Government Area of the state on Thursday night.
The security operatives led by the DPO Jibia had confronted the bandits who simultaneously carried coordinated attacks on three quarters in the Local government area headquarters, Jibia.
The spokesman for the state police command, ASP Abubakar Aliyu, on friday confirmed the incident.
He revealed that the bandits had few minutes after nine on Thursday night, carried out attacks on Ka’ida, Unguwar One Boy, and Danmarke quarters.
The security operatives reportedly engaged the bandits in fierce gun duel and foiled the attacks.
Aliyu further explained “At about 9:15 pm, suspected armed bandits launched coordinated attacks on Ka’ida, Unguwar One Boy, and Danmarke quarters, all in Jibia Township, Jibia LGA, Katsina State.
“The swift response of the joint security team led by the DPO Jibia repelled the attackers, resulting in a fierce gun duel that lasted for over an hour.
“The superior firepower and tactical advantage of the joint security team eventually forced the bandits to retreat with unspecified casualties as the operation resulted in the successful rescue of sixteen (16) victims trapped by the bandits.
“Regrettably, five (5) persons sustained gunshot injuries as a result of the bandits’ attack. The injured victims were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
“Sadly, one member of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps and a Vigilante member lost their lives during the encounter, paying the ultimate price.
“Further development will be communicated in due course, please.”
The command spokesman added that ” the command, in collaboration with sister security agencies, while working closely with all relevant stakeholders, is intensifying efforts to ensure the arrest of the perpetrators of this dastardly act.”
The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Police Command, CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa, had also reportedly reassured the public of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and properties in the state.
He further urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency numbers:
0815 967 7777
0707 272 2539.
