The Chairman of Faruruwa Community Development Association, Alhaji Yahaya Umar Bagobiri, has raised concern over recurring bandit attacks on Faruruwa and neighbouring communities in Bagwai and Shanono Local Government Areas of Kano State.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday in Kano, Bagobiri said the attacks, which have resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of residents.
He said the community, which shares a border with Katsina State, had become a target for bandits who invade from neighbouring areas, posing a serious security threat to Kano if urgent action is not taken.
“Bandits are making inroads into Kano through our community due to the porous borders with Katsina. Since 2022, many people have been killed, and about 1,600 cows have been stolen, excluding rams and goats,” he said.
He added that several motorcycles and other valuables were also carted away during the attacks, while some community members were kidnapped and released only after paying huge ransoms.
“At least one victim, name withheld, paid N15 million before regaining his wife’s freedom. Six people have sustained gunshot injuries in recent attacks,” he said.
Bagobiri lamented that despite the presence of a small Joint Task Force (JTF) in the area, their number was insufficient to tackle the well-armed bandits, who often invade the community on over 50 motorcycles, with three riders on each bike.
He, therefore, appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and relevant security agencies to urgently deploy more personnel and resources to protect the affected communities.
“The federal and state governments should as a matter of urgency collaborate with the police, army, and other security agencies to restore peace and protect lives and property,” he said.
Bagobiri identified the affected communities to include Faruruwa, Gorondutse, Tsaure, and Karaku noting that residents were living in fear and many had fled their homes due to repeated attacks.
He urged the government to take swift and decisive measures to prevent further escalation of the crisis.