Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times 

Reports from Katsina State, in Nigeria’s northwest, indicate that armed bandits have set up a new camp in Bakori Local Government Area, using it as a base to launch deadly attacks. Additionally, another group is reportedly making efforts to establish a camp in a forest near Tafoki, Faskari Local Government Area.

The deteriorating security situation has forced thousands of residents to flee their homes in search of safety, as communities face relentless assaults.

These developments come despite repeated assurances from security agencies and the Katsina State government that efforts are being intensified to combat banditry in the region. However, the situation on the ground tells a different story, with locals expressing frustration and despair over the escalating violence.

Residents Speak Out Amidst Growing Fear

Residents of at least six communities in Bakori LGA are now in a state of extreme distress. One local, who requested anonymity for security reasons, described the horror they are facing:

"These criminals come out daily, looting our belongings and making life unbearable for us. Initially, they attacked at night, but now they strike even in broad daylight. Many people are fleeing, but some can’t even afford transport fares and are forced to escape on foot with their families."

According to him, the bandits have already established a stronghold in Mununu, from where they launch attacks on nearby villages. He added that the violence has intensified over the past two months.

"We have been crying out for help. We have a local vigilante group called KBK, and they even took our complaints to the governor’s office. But nothing has changed; the attacks continue."

Moustapha Musa Kakumi, another resident, confirmed to the BBC that bandits have overrun their town.

"Every day, they invade our villages, abducting people and driving them into the forests. They kill those who resist and take away our livestock," he lamented.

Tafoki Under Siege as Bandits Seek to Expand Territory

In Tafoki, Faskari LGA, residents are facing a similar crisis, as bandits attempt to set up a new camp in the nearby forest. A resident of the area narrated their ordeal:

"These criminals attack us day and night, killing people indiscriminately, regardless of age. They set houses and shops on fire and abduct men and women, demanding huge ransoms."

He further warned that the insurgents plan to expand their operations to Funtua, Danja, Bakori, and Faskari, having been spotted gathering in the forest with weapons and motorcycles.

"A man who escaped from their captivity confirmed that they are preparing to establish a permanent camp in this area to take full control," he added.

Government's Response Falls Short Amid Escalating Crisis

The increasing violence has forced between eight and ten communities to abandon their homes, with residents left at the mercy of the attackers.

In response, Katsina State’s Commissioner for Security and Internal Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, claimed that the government is actively addressing the crisis.

"We are constantly fighting them through air raids, military ground operations, and collaboration with vigilantes, police, and civil defense forces," he stated.

However, he provided only limited details, saying he wanted to avoid "revealing strategies to the enemy."

Despite these assurances, residents remain skeptical, as the bandits continue to tighten their grip on the region, forcing communities into displacement and despair.