A rapid Katsina police response stopped a bandit ambush on the Kandawa–Dankar road, recovering rifles, ammunition and a motorcycle

In a development hailed by security officials as a swift breakthrough, the Katsina police response prevented what could have been a deadly bandit ambush along the Kandawa–Dankar road in Batsari Local Government Area, the command announced on Saturday.

Also read: Peace deal leads to positive breakthrough as bandits free 37 villagers

According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, officers acted on a morning distress report on 29 November 2025, which indicated that armed suspects were attempting to block the busy rural route.

Police personnel from the Batsari Division mobilised immediately, engaging the attackers in a brief exchange of gunfire that forced them to flee.

Sadiq revealed that two AK-47 rifles, twenty-four rounds of live ammunition and a Boxer motorcycle were recovered at the scene following the confrontation.

He noted that heightened vigilance and a strategic review ordered by the Inspector-General of Police and implemented by Commissioner Bello Shehu had strengthened operational readiness across the state.

He added that an investigation was under way to track down the fleeing suspects, with further updates expected as inquiries progress.

The Commissioner of Police commended the operatives for their rapid action and urged residents to continue supplying reliable information to aid security operations.

The command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Katsina, where communities remain vulnerable to banditry.

Also read: Bandit abductions rock FCT community in violent night raid

The latest incident comes days after 37 villagers abducted in Bakori Local Government Area were released following negotiations that led to a peace agreement, according to a lawmaker familiar with the matter.