In a brazen overnight attack, suspected armed bandits kidnapped four students from Paris Quarters, located behind the Federal University, Dutsinma, in Katsina State. The incident, which occurred around 2:20 a.m. on Sunday, has sparked outrage and renewed concerns about insecurity in the region.
Security operatives have been mobilized to track down the kidnappers and rescue the victims, but the bandits fled the scene before their arrival. Here’s what we know so far.
The Kidnapping: What Happened?
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert focused on the Lake Chad region, the bandits, reportedly in large numbers, quietly invaded Paris Quarters and abducted four students. The victims have been identified as:
Wali Kayode
Fahad Muhammad
Emmanuel (surname unknown)
One unidentified individual
The attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday, catching residents off guard.
Security Response
Security operatives were immediately mobilized to the scene after receiving a distress call. However, the bandits had already fled with the victims.
Makama reported that efforts are ongoing to track down the kidnappers and ensure the safe rescue of the abducted students.
Why This Matters
This kidnapping is the latest in a series of attacks targeting students and educational institutions in northern Nigeria. It highlights the persistent insecurity in the region, where bandits and kidnappers operate with alarming frequency.
For the families of the abducted students, the incident is a nightmare, and the urgency to secure their safe return cannot be overstated.
What’s Next?
As security forces intensify their efforts to locate the kidnappers, the focus will be on rescuing the students unharmed. The incident also underscores the need for improved security measures around educational institutions and residential areas in Katsina State.
