Security forces have killed at least 24 bandits and foiled a mass kidnapping attempt in Gidan Bawa village, Kandarawa Ward, Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The operation involved troops of the Nigerian Army, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), members of the Katsina Community Watch Corps and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
The DSS said the operation followed intelligence that about 40 armed men loyal to suspected bandit kingpin, Isiya Kwashen Garwa, planned to attack the community and abduct residents, particularly women and children.
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The intelligence prompted DSS operatives to mobilise members of the Katsina Community Watch Corps and the CJTF from Guga camp to intercept the attackers.
The security team reportedly ambushed the bandits, killing 24 and rescuing villagers who had already been abducted.
The operation also led to the recovery of 19 stolen cattle from the community.
The DSS said the bandits had planned to carry out a mass abduction similar to the attack on Woro community in Kwara State.
It said the planned operation was allegedly intended to embarrass the government.
Security forces were continuing operations to track down members of the gang who fled the scene.
