FACT CHECK: Viral ‘Bandit Attack’ Video in Kaduna’s Makarfi Exposed as Recycled Footage from Northeast Military Battle

Follow

( 0 Followers )

X

Follow

E-mail : *

Follow Unfollow

A viral video circulating across social media claiming to show an ongoing bandit attack in Makarfi Local Government Area of Kaduna State has been debunked as misleading content after investigators traced the footage to an earlier military operation in northeastern Nigeria.

The disturbing clip, widely shared with captions warning of a fresh bandit assault near Zaria, features intense gunfire, shouting voices, and narration describing soldiers repelling heavily armed attackers. The posts triggered fear among residents and online users across Kaduna and neighboring communities.

However, security analysts say the video does not depict any recent incident in Kaduna State.

Investigations conducted by respected security monitor Zagazola Makama confirmed that the audio narration in the viral clip originated from a January 2026 counter-insurgency battle in Borno State, where Nigerian troops engaged insurgents linked to the extremist group Islamic State West Africa Province.

The original operation was carried out by soldiers under Operation Hadin Kai in the notorious Timbuktu Triangle, a region long known as a stronghold of insurgent fighters.

According to analysts, the viral footage was removed from its original context and falsely presented as a new attack in Kaduna, a tactic increasingly used online to spread panic in communities already grappling with security challenges.

Security observers say there is no verified evidence of a large-scale bandit assault in Makarfi on March 9 matching the dramatic scenes portrayed in the video.

While some reports of suspected bandit activity and isolated abductions have circulated in parts of the area — including communities around Tashan Maliki — these reports remain separate from the viral footage.

Local media outlets such as Daily Post Nigeria reported possible bandit raids in parts of the region involving casualties and kidnappings. However, the events described in those reports do not correspond with the recycled video being widely shared online.

Security experts warn that manipulating old combat footage to create the impression of an ongoing attack can have serious consequences.

Beyond spreading fear, such misinformation can undermine public confidence in security institutions, disrupt emergency response coordination, and create confusion in communities already vulnerable to banditry and violence.

According to Zagazola Makama, the viral video represents a textbook case of recycled disinformation designed to generate panic and confusion.

Authorities are therefore urging Nigerians to verify security-related information before sharing it online.

Citizens are encouraged to rely on updates from credible sources such as the Kaduna State Police Command, the Nigerian Army, and the Defence Headquarters for accurate security information.

Analysts stress that in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving security environment, responsible information sharing is essential. Misinformation spreads quickly online, but accurate reporting remains critical to preventing unnecessary panic and supporting ongoing efforts to combat banditry and terrorism.

Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities through official emergency channels, and depend on verified information when assessing security developments.