Tragedy struck in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria, when bandits launched a deadly attack, killing 15 farmers and abducting scores of individuals, including women and girls from various communities. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, adds to the ongoing turmoil in the region, which experienced another attack a day prior, where 13 vigilante members were slain and numerous villagers were kidnapped in Kusharki village.
According to Channels Television, a community leader, who wished to remain anonymous due to security concerns, confirmed the attack and claimed that bandits have intensified their assaults in several villages within the local government. The community leader called upon the state government and security forces to intervene and alleviate the dire circumstances that the community faces. He further disclosed that the community has been besieged by bandits over the past two weeks and the situation has deteriorated.
Senator Mohammed Sani Musa, representing Niger East Senatorial District, also confirmed the attack during a conversation with Channels Television on Sunday. Senator Musa expressed his grave concern over the resumption of bandit attacks in four local government councils, namely Rafi, Paikoro, Munya, and Shiroro, which are all part of his constituency.
Despite the alarming situation, Senator Musa expressed optimism that the administration under President Bola Tinubu would address and resolve the issues imminently.
Regarding the recent attacks, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, the State Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed their occurrence but was unable to verify the exact number of casualties. As a Deputy Superintendent of Police, Abiodun stated that the police, in collaboration with the military, have dispatched forces to Yakila, Tegina, Kagara, Pandogari, Kusherki, and other villages in an effort to restore peace and stability in the beleaguered areas.
The residents of the affected communities are desperately hoping for swift intervention from the state government and security forces to curb the escalating violence and bring the perpetrators to justice. The incidents highlight the pressing need for heightened security measures and long-term strategies to counter banditry and protect vulnerable communities in the region.
