Bandits kill vigilantes, civilians in Bauchi

Armed bandits have launched a deadly attack in Mansur Village, Gwana District of Alkaleri Local Government Area, Bauchi State, killing several people, including local vigilantes and civilians.

The incident occurred around 5:40 a.m. on Sunday, May 4, when a group of professional hunters on patrol was ambushed in Dajin Madam forest, near the Bauchi–Plateau border.

 The hunters, drawn from Duguri and Gwana districts, were conducting a routine operation when they came under heavy fire.

Although the exact number of casualties has not been officially confirmed, local sources report that more than 11 people may have been killed in the early morning ambush.

The Bauchi State Police Command, in a statement issued by its spokesperson CSP Ahmed Wakil, confirmed the attack and stated that the victims included both members of the local vigilante group and civilians from Sabuwar Sara village. The victims were reportedly shot while attempting to escape the assault.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased included both quasi-security operatives and civilians, who were mercilessly shot by the bandits,” the police statement said.

In response to the attack, tactical police units were immediately deployed to the area to secure the scene and recover the bodies. A specialised unit has also been tasked with tracking down the perpetrators.

Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, visited the affected area on Monday to assess the situation and meet with community stakeholders. He strongly condemned the attack, labeling it “utterly reprehensible” and a direct threat to peace and security in the region.

“We are fully committed to ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice,” CP Aliyu assured residents.

He also urged the public to remain calm and vigilant, and to cooperate fully with security agencies as investigations continue.

The Star