By Peter Adelowo
There was panic on Saturday afternoon in Kitibawa community, Makera Ward of Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area in Katsina State, following a daylight raid by armed bandits.
Eyewitnesses say four gunmen, riding on a motorcycle, stormed the community and targeted phone-charging points, where they forcefully collected mobile phones from residents.
The attackers later moved to a fuel vendor and took fuel before leaving the area.
As they exited the community, the gunmen reportedly fired shots into the air, causing fear and confusion among villagers.
The bandits also intercepted a civilian on the outskirts of Kitibawa and forcefully seized his motorcycle before escaping.
The incident has raised fresh concerns among residents, coming just weeks after a peace agreement was reportedly reached between communities and armed groups in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area.
Residents have questioned the effectiveness of the peace deal, noting that the open daytime attack suggests the agreement may be failing.
Kitibawa and neighbouring communities have experienced repeated bandit attacks in recent years, including killings, abductions and cattle rustling.
Residents are now calling on security agencies and relevant authorities to intensify efforts to restore confidence and ensure lasting peace in the area.
