Seven k!lled as bandit leader who abducted late major General Rabe leads his fighters to attack Katsina community

Fresh tragedy has struck Katsina State after suspected bandits allegedly led by the notorious kingpin, Kachallah Fulani Muhammad, attacked Sayaya community in Matazu Local Government Area, killing at least seven residents.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, came months after the same bandit leader was linked to the abduction of late retired Major General Rabe Abubakar Batsari and his wife, further deepening fears over the worsening security situation in the state.

Eyewitnesses said heavily armed gunmen invaded the community, firing indiscriminately and forcing terrified residents to flee as they unleashed violence on the village.

Residents accused Kachallah Fulani Muhammad of leading the assault, describing him as one of the most feared bandit commanders operating across Matazu and neighbouring communities.

The latest attack has also reignited concerns over the withdrawal of security personnel from the area, with locals alleging that the gunmen returned almost immediately after troops attached to Operation Fansan Yamma left the community.

As grieving families buried the victims according to Islamic rites, many residents abandoned their homes for safer communities, warning that without a sustained military presence, more attacks could follow.