Tragedy in Katsina: Businessman Alhaji Balan Auwal Mai Gwanjo D!es in Bandits' Captivity Over Two Months After Abduction

 

A wave of sorrow has swept through Malumfashi Local Government Area in Katsina State following the tragic news of the death of a respected businessman, Alhaji Balan Auwal Mai Gwanjo, who reportedly lost his life while in the hands of armed bandits.

NaijaRush gathered that Alhaji Balan had been abducted along with his son, Saifullahi, during a violent attack on their hometown of Malumfashi on the night of February 26, 2025. According to local sources, that night was one filled with terror as heavily armed bandits invaded the community, firing shots indiscriminately and causing widespread panic.

Eyewitnesses described the chaos as unbearable. The attackers, numbering in dozens, were said to have arrived under the cover of darkness, and for several minutes, they engaged security operatives in a gun battle. Despite the best efforts of the security forces stationed in the area, the bandits overpowered them and successfully abducted the elderly businessman and his son.

After weeks of uncertainty, silence, and desperation, the family of the abducted victims received a heartbreaking phone call from the bandits on Sunday, May 11, 2025—a call that would leave them shattered.

“They called to inform the family that Alhaji Balan Auwal Mai Gwanjo has d!ed in their custody,” one source close to the family confirmed.

This devastating update has left not only his immediate family but also the entire Malumfashi community in deep mourning. Alhaji Balan was well known across Katsina State as a peace-loving, generous man and a successful businessman. His death has now added to the growing list of victims who have died as a result of the increasing rate of kidnapping and banditry in the North-West region.

As of the time of this report, it remains unclear whether his son, Saifullahi, is still alive or has been released. Family members and sympathizers are anxiously waiting for any updates about his fate, clinging to hope in a very uncertain situation.

This incident once again highlights the alarming security challenges facing many communities in Northern Nigeria. It also raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to curb the menace of banditry, kidnapping, and violent attacks across the country.

Our hearts go out to the family of Alhaji Balan Auwal Mai Gwanjo, and we at NaijaRush call on relevant authorities to redouble their efforts in bringing those responsible to justice and ensuring the safe return of all citizens still held in captivity.

May his soul rest in peace.