Armed bandits attacked Wushishi and Rafi Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Niger State, killing two people and kidnapping at least ten farmers.

A security officer, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed that the victims included a vigilante and a logger. According to him, the bandits also kidnapped another vigilante who had two guns with him. “We have been fighting them since Tuesday. They killed one of our men and a logger,” he said.

Reports say that as of Wednesday evening, the bandits were still hiding in Akare Forest. They also stole many cattle from nearby villages. The logger who was killed was first captured and forced to help guide the bandits before they shot him.

Locals reported seeing the bandits traveling on motorcycles, with three people on each bike. They were moving from Kundu, Rafi LGA, towards Mashegu LGA with stolen cattle.

In addition to the kidnappings, the criminals attacked several communities in Gunna District, Rafi LGA, burning yam barns and destroying properties.

The Commissioner for Homeland Security in Niger State, Brigadier General Bello Abdullahi Mohammed (Rtd), confirmed the attack. He assured that security forces had been sent to the area and were tracking the attackers.

Residents in the affected communities remain in fear as they hope for quick action from the security forces.