Residents of a quiet village in Kano State are reeling from fear and uncertainty after armed bandits launched a late-night raid, abducting three women and leaving families shaken.
The attackers struck with calculated precision, moving aggressively through homes and firing shots to intimidate anyone who attempted to resist.
The assault unfolded in Yan Kwada, a settlement within Faruruwa village in Shanono Local Government Area, where gunmen reportedly stormed the community around 11 p.m.
Villagers say the bandits broke into multiple houses and dragged out five women, including two nursing mothers. Two of the victims were later released, but the remaining three are still held by the kidnappers.
Residents describe the terrifying invasion as one of the most traumatic in recent memory.
“We heard the gunshots and knew immediately that these people had come with no fear of security forces,” a local youth leader said.
“They went from one household to another as if they knew exactly who they wanted.”
Tension has continued to escalate in border communities, especially those close to Katsina State.
Security analysts believe the attackers may be relocating from Katsina following pressure created by a recent peace deal targeting criminal groups.
They warn that the spillover effect could expose more villages in Kano to renewed violence.
Community leaders are calling for urgent intervention.
“This attack should be a wake-up call,” a senior traditional elder told reporters. “The government must increase patrols along the border areas and collaborate with Katsina to prevent these criminals from shifting base.”
The abduction adds to growing insecurity concerns, coming just a week after security forces reportedly neutralized 19 bandits in the wider region.
Many frightened residents of Faruruwa and surrounding communities have already fled to nearby towns and cities, fearing the attackers may return.
Security agencies are yet to issue an official statement, but villagers say they hope authorities will respond swiftly to rescue the remaining abducted women and restore calm to the troubled area.