Security Alert in Katsina as Nigerien Forces Breach Nigerian Border, Open Fire

Residents of Mazanya Village in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State were thrown into panic on Saturday after a military convoy from the Niger Republic crossed the border into Nigerian territory and opened fire.

The incident occurred around 2:00 p.m. when four military gun trucks and a Toyota Jeep from Niger, reportedly led by CPT Salifou Mono, entered the community and began shooting sporadically, sparking fear among locals.

Security analyst Zagozola Makama reported that Nigerian forces, including troops under Operation FANSAN YANMA, the police, Department of State Service (DSS) and the Civilian Joint Task Force, swiftly mobilized, tracked the foreign troops, and escorted them back across the Danmasani Border.

The Nigerien commander was said to have later issued an apology for the unauthorised incursion and assured that the episode would not be repeated.

PlatinumPost reports that the border breach has further highlighted the volatility along the Nigeria–Niger frontier, an area increasingly affected by jihadist movements across the Sahel.

Recall that Katsina remains one of the major hotspots of banditry in the country, with numerous communities suffering frequent raids and kidnappings for ransom.