Residents of several communities in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State were on Thursday night thrown into panic following a coordinated attack by heavily armed bandits, resulting in the death of a civilian and the destruction of about 100 cattle.
The attack targeted Yankwada, Babanduhu and nearby villages, resulting in an hours-long gunfight between the attackers and Nigerian troops deployed in the area. The clashes reportedly started around 1:00 am and continued till around 5:00 am on Friday.
Shanono/Bagwai Community Security Forum chairman Yahya Bagobiri confirmed the incident, saying the attackers came on more than 50 motorcycles, each carrying about three armed men.
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He said the bandits were armed with sophisticated weapons including rocket launchers and other heavy firearms.
According to Bagobiri, the attack was retaliation after the killing of nine bandits during a recent military operation in the area. Despite the casualties, he said, troops on the ground fought the attackers tactically and prevented them from advancing on major cities.
“The army stood its ground and successfully prevented the bandits from entering the main population centres,” he said. “Although the attackers managed to escape with about 100 cows and killed one civilian, their larger objective was defeated.”
Bagobiri lauded the efforts of the security forces, describing their response in difficult circumstances as courageous and strategic. However, he appealed to the federal government to strengthen military presence in the area through the deployment of additional personnel and better weapons.
He expressed confidence that the enhanced support along with cooperation with the Nigerian Air Force will help curb banditry activities and restore lasting peace in Shanono, Bagwai, Tsanyiwa and Gwarzo local government areas.
“They intend to advance deeper towards Kano, but with more troops and better equipment, their criminal ambitions can be stopped,” Bagobiri assured.
