Armed bandits have reportedly killed six people in Tungan-Makeri and set a police station on fire in nearby Konkoso district, both located in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
Authorities in Niger State confirmed that the assault occurred around 3:00 a.m. on Saturday when gunmen stormed Tunga-Makeri village through the Shafachi District axis of Borgu LGA.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, disclosed that multiple homes were torched during the invasion. He also stated that an unspecified number of residents were abducted in the course of the attack.
Reports indicate that the violence began late Friday when more than 200 armed men reportedly descended on Tungan-Makeri, firing indiscriminately and setting buildings ablaze.
Residents said the attackers operated for several hours, leaving at least six persons dead and forcing many others to flee their homes.
An eyewitness from Zagatina village, situated along the route taken by the assailants, recounted seeing dozens of motorcycles transporting the gunmen.
“They passed through my village, and I counted about 41 motorcycles, with two or three persons on each, including women and children on some,” the resident said.
“I quickly hid myself in the bush when I noticed them coming because they passed through the back of my house.”
After the attack on Tungan-Makeri, the bandits reportedly advanced to Konkoso in the early hours of Saturday, where they allegedly operated without immediate resistance from security forces. During the incursion, a police facility in the district was set ablaze.
Locals described Tungan-Makeri and Konkoso as significant communities within Borgu LGA, raising alarm over what they view as increasing boldness by criminal elements in the area.
There were also accounts that a Nigerian Air Force aircraft was sighted hovering around Tungan-Makeri following the initial onslaught. Some residents believe the aerial presence may have compelled the attackers to retreat.
In response, joint security personnel have been deployed to the affected communities for an on-the-spot evaluation. Efforts are said to be underway to rescue those abducted and restore calm to the area.
The latest incident has renewed concerns over security challenges in parts of Borgu LGA, with residents urging authorities to reinforce security presence to forestall further attacks.
What you should know
Six people were reportedly killed after armed bandits attacked Tungan-Makeri in Borgu LGA of Niger State, setting houses and a police station in nearby Konkoso ablaze.
Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the early morning attack and said several residents were abducted. Witnesses reported that over 200 armed men on motorcycles carried out the assault.
Security operatives have since been deployed to the area, while efforts to rescue victims and restore order continue.
