Armed bandits have attacked Baga community in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, killing five villagers and abducting about 150 others after setting several homes on fire.
A source within the community revealed that the attackers, who were heavily armed with sophisticated weapons, also deployed explosives during the assault, causing widespread destruction.
Many residents who fled into nearby bushes for safety were reportedly shot, while others were captured and taken away by the assailants.
“The gunmen are many and are believed to have entered the community from neighbouring Kaduna state to wreak havoc,” the source said.
Local vigilante members who attempted to resist the attackers were also targeted, with several sustaining injuries and later taken to the hospital for treatment. The source added, “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 response, security personnel have reportedly been deployed to the area in efforts to restore calm, rescue abducted victims, and prevent further violence.
The Chairman of Shiroro Local Government Area, Ishyaku Bawa, confirmed the incident during a telephone conversation with journalists.
“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,” he stated.
What you should know
Bandits attacked Baga community in Niger State, killing five people and abducting about 150 villagers while burning homes.
The attackers reportedly used sophisticated weapons and explosives, overwhelming local vigilantes.
Security forces have since been deployed to restore order and rescue victims, as concerns grow over rising insecurity in the region.
