Bandits Demand N150m Ransom After Abducting Katsina Residents

In Katsina, bandits have abducted an unspecified number of residents and are demanding a ransom of N150 million for their release. Sources indicate that the notorious bandit known as Malam Ikku is believed to be behind the attack, which may be a revenge mission for the death of his elder brother, Alhaji Ilya.

Alhaji Ilya was allegedly killed during a security operation aimed at combating banditry in the area. The exact number of victims remains unclear, but it has been reported that the bandits have already contacted the families of the victims via phone to demand the ransom.

Additionally, there are indications that the attack on the Zango community is part of a broader pattern of violence, with warnings issued by sources about potential further attacks within three days. Efforts to reach Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Muazu Danmusa, were unsuccessful as calls and text messages went unanswered.