Tension in Katsina LG as security operation claims bandit leader’s father

Tension is mounting in the Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State following the killing of Alhaji Ibrahim Nagode, 60, father of a wanted bandit leader, during a raid conducted by personnel of the Civilian Joint Task Force, CJTF.

Security analyst, Zagazola Makama, who monitored the unfolding development, quoted sources as saying the shooting occurred when the bandit leader, Haruna Ibrahim, popularly called Fada, was reportedly returning to Na’alma village after a recently negotiated peace accord between bandits and surrounding communities in the area.

According to the sources, the locality had been on edge after intelligence reports suggested that armed bandits were regrouping around nearby settlements.

This prompted the deployment of combined security troops to upscale patrols, but the operation ended with Nagode being fatally shot amid the intervention.

In response to growing concerns over the incident, the Department of State Services confirmed that all CJTF personnel involved in the operation have been taken into custody for questioning.

A senior security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, warned that the incident could destabilise the already fragile truce, with fears of possible reprisals.

Authorities said they are monitoring the situation closely to prevent escalation and ensure the peace process is not derailed.

Security operatives have urged residents to remain vigilant, remain calm, and cooperate with law enforcement by reporting any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security formation.

Community leaders and peace advocates also emphasised the need to sustain dialogue and respect the terms of existing peace agreements to avoid further violence in the affected settlements.

The killing has heightened anxieties in the area, with stakeholders calling for tactful crisis management to preserve the fragile peace and forestall retaliatory attacks.