Residents Flee As Bandits Kill 3, Injure Others In Niger

Bandits have attacked Lanta, Tunga and Bagna communities in Erena Ward of Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving three people dead and several others injured.

The attack reportedly began around 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday in Bagna, the hometown of former Niger State Commissioner for Internal Security, Emmanuel Umar, before spreading to neighbouring villages.

A source in Bagna told Daily Trust that while casualties were believed to be high, the exact number had yet to be confirmed as the situation remained tense.

According to the source, the assailants, who arrived in large numbers on motorcycles, operated unchallenged for several hours.

“So far, we have recovered three bodies. Many others sustained injuries of varying degrees. Many people have fled to Erena town, the only nearby community considered relatively safe. We are calling on the government to come to our rescue,” the source said.

The Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Barrister Maurice Bello Magaji, confirmed the incident in a text message to our correspondent.

“Yes, the state has received credible information and is working with security forces,” he said.(Daily trust)