Bandits attacked, killed 10 people in Rafi local government area.

 The recent violent incidents in Niger State have further escalated concerns about insecurity in the region. 

Around 4 am yesterday, armed bandits attacked several villages in the Kagara area, including Wayam, Belu-Belu, and Madaka, resulting in the deaths of at least 10 people and the abduction of many others.

Several individuals were also injured and are receiving treatment at a clinic in Kagara. 

Residents, most of whom were preparing for early morning prayers, fled their homes, seeking refuge in Kagara town.

A local resident, recounted that many people have not been able to harvest their crops due to the violence, and in some cases, farmers were forced to pay ransoms to secure their harvests. 

One such payment was reported in Kukoki, where villagers had to pay N1.5 million to avoid further attacks.

In addition to the Kagara incident, bandits recently attacked the town of Zungeru in Wushishi Local Government Area, kidnapping several residents, including a Sino-Hydro employee and his wife. The bandits also targeted the Zungeru-Tegina-Kontagora road, killing eight vigilantes in their attempt to evade security forces.

Authorities have acknowledged the rising threat, with the Niger State government and security agencies on high alert. Brigadier General Bello Abdullahi Mohammed, the Commissioner for Homeland Security, confirmed that all relevant security stakeholders have been mobilized to tackle the attacks. Police spokesperson SP Wasiu Abiodun indicated that the recent attacks might be reprisal actions stemming from the ongoing military operations against bandits, including a successful rescue of 23 abducted victims in Rafi Local Government Area. Security operations are reportedly intensifying to rescue the remaining hostages and prevent further violence.

The recent attack in the State, where at least 10 farmers were killed by bandits in Wayam and Belu-Belu villages in Rafi Local Government Area, highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by rural communities in Nigeria. 

Banditry and violent attacks by criminal groups have escalated in many parts of the country, particularly in the northern regions, leaving farmers vulnerable as they work their land. These attacks often result in loss of life, displacement, and a deepening of the humanitarian crisis in affected areas. The incident underscores the need for stronger security measures and support for local communities to mitigate the effects of such attacks.