Terrorists Kill 20 In Niger, Dozens In Kebbi As Attacks Spread Across Communities
Coordinated attacks by terrorists in Niger and Kebbi leave dozens dead, displacing residents across communities.
Coordinated attacks by terrorists in Niger and Kebbi leave dozens dead, displacing residents across communities.
Terrorists have reportedly killed at least 20 people in several communities in Niger State and dozens more in Kebbi State, in a wave of attacks that has forced residents to flee their homes.
According to Reuters, the attack in Niger occurred in Shiroro LGA, where residents said the assailants operated for hours, destroying homes and overwhelming security personnel.
Many villagers fled to nearby towns including Gwada, Zumba, and Galadima Kogo in search of safety.
Wasiu Abiodun, spokesperson of the Niger State Police Command, confirmed that gunmen invaded Bagna and Erena villages on Tuesday. He said two community guards and a driver were killed, while others sustained injuries.
In Kebbi, suspected bandits carried out similar attacks, killing dozens of residents and setting houses ablaze across several communities.
A cleric told TheCable that the violence occurred in Debbe and Shabanda, as well as neighbouring communities.
Bashir Usman, spokesperson of the Kebbi State Police Command, confirmed the attacks but said casualty figures were yet to be verified.
“At about 2230hrs, suspected Mamudawa terrorist elements attacked the villages, resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property,” Usman said.
“Police tactical teams from Illo Division swiftly responded, intercepted the attackers, neutralised two of them, and recovered a Niger Republic Army uniform as well as Immigration uniforms.
“While reports are still being verified, the command cannot at this time confirm the casualty figures being circulated. However, we deeply sympathise with the affected communities.”
Usman added that additional security personnel have been deployed to prevent further attacks.
“Security personnel have been reinforced and are actively on ground to forestall further attacks,” he said.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm as more details will be communicated in due course.”
