Bandits kill 30, abduct many in Niger community attack

No fewer than 30 people are feared dead following a deadly attack by suspected bandits on a community in Niger State, with several others abducted.

The attack occurred at a village market in Kabe District, Borgu Local Government Area, where the assailants reportedly stormed the area and opened fire on residents. The gunmen also set the market ablaze and looted food items and other goods.

Eyewitness accounts said the attackers arrived in large numbers and shot indiscriminately, causing panic among traders and villagers. Many residents were reportedly abducted while trying to escape through paths leading to the Kainji Lake National Park forest.

Sources said the bandits are believed to be operating from the Kainji Lake National Park, which has become a hideout for criminal gangs in the area.

Confirming the incident, the Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, said security agencies had launched a response to the attack. He disclosed that a joint team of security operatives had visited the affected community.

According to Abiodun, more than 30 people lost their lives during the attack, while several others were taken away by the attackers. He added that security forces are working to rescue the abducted victims and restore calm in the area.

The police spokesman said investigations were ongoing to track down the perpetrators and prevent further attacks in the region. He also assured residents that measures had been put in place to strengthen security around the affected communities.

The attack has heightened fears among residents of Borgu Local Government Area, many of whom have raised concerns over recurring attacks linked to bandits operating around the Kainji Lake axis.

Residents have called on the government to intensify security operations in the area to prevent further loss of lives and property.