Notorious bandit kingpin Wakiyu eliminated in Katsina

A suspected bandit kingpin, identified as Wakiyu, has reportedly been killed during a clash involving soldiers, police officers and C-Watch operatives in Katsina State.

Wakiyu was reportedly killed in Damari, Sabuwa Local Government Area of the state, according to a post by Bakatsine, a conflict reporter covering northwest Nigeria, on X on Wednesday.

The conflict reporter alleged that Wakiyu was linked to the gang of notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Maha and had been terrorising residents of Matazu and surrounding communities.

Bakatsine commended troops of the 17 Brigade Command in Katsina for sustaining operations against armed groups across the state.

The reported killing comes amid ongoing security operations in parts of northwest Nigeria, where armed bandits have continued to attack communities, abduct residents and disrupt farming and other economic activities.

He wrote: “Good News: notorious bandit Wakiyu killed in Katsina State.

“Wakiyu, who was reportedly linked to Kachalla Maha’s group, was killed during a clash involving soldiers, police officers and C-Watch operatives in Damari, Sabuwa LGA, Katsina State. He was accused of terrorising residents in Matazu and surrounding areas.

“Kudos to the troops of 17 Brigade Command in Katsina for sustaining the offensive against bandits across the state. These operations are important in the fight against insecurity and in restoring peace to affected communities.

“May our security forces continue to record successes and bring lasting relief to residents of Katsina State.