An intelligence led operation involving the Department of State Services, community vigilantes and trained hunters has reportedly killed bandit leader Idi Abasu Aiki and more than 60 suspected fighters in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State.

Security sources said more than 200 armed men had entered Guga village on an alleged reprisal mission against communities supporting local defence groups. The attackers were said to include fighters linked to the Ado Aleru network in neighbouring Zamfara State.

According to the sources, intelligence gathered before the assault enabled security forces and local groups to ambush the attackers. Aiki and 14 alleged commanders were reportedly among those killed, while four vigilantes and hunters also died.

A clearance operation was later conducted to recover weapons and other materials abandoned by fleeing fighters.