A notorious bandit leader, Idi Abasu Aiki, and more than 60 other suspected bandits were reportedly killed during an intelligence-led security operation in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation, according to security analyst Zagazola Makama, was carried out by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) with support from members of the Katsina State Community Vigilantes and specially trained local hunters.
Makama said the operation was launched after intelligence indicated that over 200 armed bandits, allegedly led by Aiki, were mobilising for a reprisal attack on communities accused of collaborating with local security groups protecting villages in the area.
According to him, the armed group, reinforced by fighters linked to the Ado Aleru gang in neighbouring Zamfara State, moved into Guga village in Bakori LGA to carry out the planned assault.
“Over 200 armed bandits led by kingpin Idi Abasu Aiki stormed Guga village in Bakori LGA of Katsina State. Assisted by several bandits from the Ado Aleru band in Zamfara State, the bandits were out to attack communities they believed had been supporting Community Watch Corps protecting the surrounding villages,” Makama said.
