Wednesday, 7th July 2021: No fewer than 18 people were killed by suspected armed bandits in an attack on Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The police spokesperson in the state, Gambo Isah, told reporters that one other person was injured in the attack that occurred in Tsauwa village.

Residents say the bandits may have been on a reprisal mission as they carried out the attack after the killing of three suspected bandits by the security agents in the area on Friday.

The bandits also rustled many livestock and set ablaze houses and silos before fleeing to the forest, many residents said.

The residents said security agents had killed the three suspects on Friday, when they repelled an attack by some gunmen.

However, the bandits apparently regrouped and returned Monday night to unleash terror on the village.

The police spokesperson said security agents were trailing the criminals.

Attacks by armed bandits on communities have continued in Northwestern states including Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna.

Apart from killing residents and destroying properties, the bandits also kidnap for ransom.