Armed bandits have struck multiple communities in the Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State, killing sixteen vigilante members and kidnapping forty-two residents, local sources and officials confirm.
The assaults began in earnest on Sunday, November 9, when bandits stormed Dutsen Magaji village and abducted twenty-two residents. “When they came on Sunday, the vigilantes pursued them and engaged them in a gun duel. In the process, three vigilantes were killed, and five people are currently receiving treatment in hospital,” a community source told reporters.
Despite the community’s efforts to confront the attackers, the bandits escalated their offensive. On Thursday, November 13th, they returned at dawn to invade Magama village during early morning prayers, surrounding the mosque and seizing more than twenty worshippers. Vigilantes who tried to thwart the attackers were caught in a deadly ambush. “The bandits opened fire, killing thirteen vigilante members and injuring several others,” the source said.
Isah Ibrahim Bokuta, Press Secretary to the Chairman of Mashegu LGA, confirmed the tragic loss, stating: “The fallen vigilantes are heroes who sacrificed their lives to defend their communities.” Bokuta expressed the local government’s appreciation for their courage and selfless commitment to keeping the area safe.
The spate of attacks has forced many residents to flee to neighbouring communities for safety, heightening concerns about the persistent insecurity across Niger State. When contacted, Niger State Police Command spokesperson SP Wasiu Abiodun said he would verify the incidents and issue an update.
As the search for the kidnapped residents continues, community leaders and security agencies are urgently appealing for reinforcements and government intervention to stem the tide of violent banditry plaguing the region.
