At least 14 people have been killed following a violent clash between vigilantes and suspected “repentant bandits” in Katsina State.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday in Jibia Local Government Area, left three suspected gunmen and 11 members of a local vigilance group dead, according to security sources.
The violence reportedly erupted after the breakdown of a peace agreement between residents of Falale and Kadobe communities and a group of bandits who had earlier surrendered.
A counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region reported that tensions escalated around midday, leading to a fierce confrontation in which three of the suspected bandits were initially killed.
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The killings triggered a reprisal attack by the armed group, resulting in the deaths of 11 vigilantes drawn from the affected communities.
The Katsina State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that security operatives were swiftly deployed to the area to contain the situation.
Authorities also said a joint security team, including troops of ‘Operation FANSAN YANMA’ and other agencies, engaged community leaders and stakeholders to de-escalate tensions and prevent further violence.
Officials added that calm has since been restored, while investigations into the clash are ongoing.
The incident highlights the fragile nature of ongoing non-kinetic efforts by authorities in Katsina to address insecurity through reconciliation with armed groups.
