Bandits have killed no fewer than 11 persons after invading three villages in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The incident was confirmed by Katsina State Police Public Relations Officer Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu on Sunday, May 26, 2024.

Sadiq-Aliyu debunked a report claiming that 40 people were killed by bandits.

He said: “We are aware of a misleading report making the rounds, especially on Facebook, that bandits attacked three villages in Bakori and killed 40 people.

“The command wishes to categorically debunk this claim as misleading and set the record straight.

“On May 25, 2024, bandits launched an attack on Unguwar Lamido village in Bakori where they shot and killed 11 people.

Bandits kill village head, sons, 6 others in Katsina

“The Divisional Police Officer in Bakori, on receiving the information, quickly mobilised operatives and rushed to the scene where they successfully restored normalcy and prevented further losses.”

The police spokesman urged Nigerians to disregard the report and warned against circulating unverified news.

Sadiq-Aliyu also advised Nigerians to always verify information, through official channels before sharing, saying the spread of false information could cause panic, fear, and unnecessary tension.

He quoted Katsina State Commissioner of Police A. A. Musa as condoling friends and families of the victims, while condemning the attack.

The police spokesperson added: “The commissioner has also ordered a thorough investigation into the incident and deployed additional personnel to ensure the arrest of the perpetrators.

“The commissioner has also urged anyone with useful information that will assist the investigation to come forward and assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

“The investigation is ongoing; the command is working closely with relevant stakeholders and members of the community to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack.”

The Star