Many feared dead as terrorists invade Niger community

Ukuru village was invaded by terrorists who first made a stop at the market, killed many and followed those who fled to their homes to kill again

Several bandits stormed a Niger State community on motorcycles and by the time they left, many people have been feared killed.

According to The Nation newspaper, the terrorists attacked Ukuru village in Bobi community of Mariga local government area of Niger State on motorcycles and bearing AK-47 rifles.According to the newspaper, the terrorists, it was gathered, attacked the Ukuru market where traders and customers fled during gunshots.

They then invaded the residential area, killing whoever they met on their way and burning houses of the community members.The report says Niger Commissioner for Information Mohammed Sani Idris confirmed the attack, saying the number of those killed in the attack were yet to be specified.

He also said the terrorists burnt several houses and vehicles.

Idris explained that the terrorists who attacked the community were those fleeing from the ongoing military operations in Kaduna, Zamfara, Kebbi and Sokoto States.

“The terrorists do not want to kidnap many people because it will be a burden on them as they try to escape,” he said.

He however reiterated government determination to put an end to the activities of the terrorists in the State.

Bandits have become more violent like beasts on the loose. TheNiche had reported that 23 travellers from Sokoto heading to Lagos were burnt to death by bandits. The victims were said to have been on their way to Gadan Gayan in Kaduna en-route southern part of the country in search of livelihood.

It said a resident of Sabon Birni who narrated the incident to our correspondent when he arrived in Sokoto on Tuesday said, “The seasonal migrants were burnt to death at Gidan Bawa village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State by suspected bandits.

“The vehicle which they hired for the journey was ambushed by the bandits, who opened fire on them on Monday, around Teke village in Gidan Bawa District.

“The bandits shot at the tyres of the vehicle, it somersaulted and burst into flame. Not done, the bandits surrounded the burning vehicle to ensure none of the passengers survived.”