Scores feared killed as bandits attack Kebbi villages

Suspected bandits launched a coordinated night attack on multiple villages in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, leaving a trail of destruction, razing homes, and an undisclosed number of casualties.

The attack unfolded late on Sunday, when armed assailants stormed Gebe, Kawara, Kalkami, and other nearby communities, exploiting the difficult wetland terrain to carry out the operation.

Eyewitness accounts and local sources said several houses were set ablaze, forcing residents to flee for safety.

Security sources revealed that the attackers were believed to have emerged from hideouts in the Wawa Forest in Borgu Local Government Area of neighbouring Niger State.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the incident, describing it as a coordinated attack.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, said security forces, including Police Tactical Units, the Military, Marine Police, and local vigilantes, were deployed to the area to restore order and protect lives.

“The command expresses its deepest condolences to the families affected and stands firmly with the communities during this difficult time,” Usman said, adding that operations were ongoing to track down the perpetrators.

“We urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts intensify to stabilise the area,” he added.

Local sources confirmed that, in addition to Kalkami, Kawara village was also extensively burnt, alongside parts of Tungar Bori and surrounding settlements.

As of press time, authorities had yet to release an official casualty figure, but multiple fatalities and injuries were feared.

The latest attack underscores growing security concerns in border communities between Kebbi and Niger states, where residents continue to grapple with recurring violence and displacement.(Punch)