SAA event in Nigeria on Wed 28th January 2026

Bandits ambush police patrol in Katsina, four officers killed

By: Zagazola Makama 

 Four police officers were killed and two others injured when suspected armed bandits ambushed a patrol along the Guga–Bakori road in Katsina State.

Sources told Zagazola Makama on Wednesday that the attack occurred on Jan. 27 at about 12:45 p.m., targeting operatives of the 27 Police Mobile Force (PMF), Guga Camp, during a routine patrol.

According to the source, the driver of the patrol vehicle lost control after coming under fire, causing the vehicle to crash by the roadside. Officers who died on the spot were identified as UC ASP Abubakar Abdullahi, Insp. Umar Ahmed, and Sgt. Kailani Kabir.

The source added that the assailants carted away the officers’ weapons, including an AK-47 rifle loaded with 30 rounds, a Tokarev pistol with eight rounds, and a long-range gunner rifle.

Two other officers sustained injuries: Cpl. Daniel Japet sustained a fracture, while Cpl. Abdulaziz Sani suffered a gunshot wound.

The Area Commander, Funtua, promptly mobilised joint police alongside troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA to the scene. Victims were evacuated to the General Hospital, Funtua, for autopsy and medical treatment.

Security forces have blocked all potential exit routes, and cordon-and-search operations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators and recover the missing arms.