Five killed, 150 abducted as bandits attack Niger community

Suspected bandits have launched a deadly attack on Baga community in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving at least five villagers dead and about 150 others abducted.

According to a source from the community, the attackers stormed the village with sophisticated weapons and explosives, setting several houses on fire and causing widespread destruction.

Residents who attempted to flee into nearby bushes were not spared, as some were reportedly shot while trying to escape, while others were captured and taken away by the gunmen.

“The gunmen are many and are believed to have entered the community from neighbouring Kaduna State to wreak havoc,” the source said.

The incident has heightened fears among residents, as communities in the area continue to face repeated attacks by armed groups.

“Some men of the local vigilante members who tried to repel the gunmen were shot and sustained varying degrees of injuries and rushed to the hospital for treatment.

According to him, “We can see thick smoke in different parts of the communities, which is an indication that Baga and neighbouring villages had been set ablaze.”

In a swift reaction, our Correspondent gathered that security personnel have been drafted to the area to rescue those abducted and to keep peace in the area.

Chairman of the Local government, Mr. Ishyaku Bawa, confirmed the incident in a telephone conversation with Journalists.

He declared, “Yes, bandits invaded the community, and some villagers were killed, while some were injured.

“We are presently in the hospital to attend to those injured, and I cannot give more details for now,” the chairman declared.

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