The notorious bandit leader Kachalla Dan Lukuti, known for orchestrating fatal assaults in Zamfara and Katsina states, has reportedly died after being afflicted by a mysterious illness that caused him to bark like a dog prior to his death.
Sources familiar with his activities disclosed that Lukuti became ill approximately one week ago, displaying unusual symptoms such as extreme aggression, uncontrollable spasms, and continuous barking that resembled the sounds of a rabid dog.
His gang members, frightened by the peculiar nature of his condition, kept their distance and were unable to assist him. Ultimately, he succumbed to the illness.
Lukuti operated from the Kokonba forest in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, leading a group of over 50 armed men. He was responsible for multiple attacks in Dan Jiloga, Rijiya, Zonai, Magami, and along the Gusau-Magami highway, extending his criminal activities into Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.
Despite his reign of terror, his final days were filled with suffering. Witnesses reported that he howled and barked in agony until he died.
Overcome by fear and superstition, his gang forced villagers in Kizara to conduct his burial, laying him to rest at the local primary school.
His mysterious death has sparked speculation, with some attributing it to rabies, while others believe it was spiritual punishment for his years of brutality.
His demise comes amid intensified military operations against bandit hideouts across the Northwest.