Suspected bandits have reportedly attacked Baga community in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving at least five people dead and abducting about 150 residents. The assailants were also said to have set several houses on fire, causing widespread destruction and panic across the affected villages.
According to a local source, the attackers, who were heavily armed, stormed the community in large numbers and operated for hours without immediate resistance. The source revealed that the gunmen not only carried sophisticated weapons but also deployed explosives during the assault, intensifying the level of devastation.
Residents who attempted to flee into nearby bushes for safety were not spared, as some were reportedly shot while trying to escape. Others were forcefully rounded up and taken away by the attackers. The source further disclosed that the bandits are believed to have entered the area through neighbouring Kaduna State before launching the coordinated attack.
Local vigilante members who attempted to confront the invaders were overpowered. Several of them sustained serious injuries and were rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Meanwhile, thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from different parts of the community, indicating that multiple homes and properties had been set ablaze.
Security operatives have since been deployed to the area in response to the incident. Their mission, according to reports, is to restore order, rescue those abducted, and prevent further attacks.
The Chairman of Shiroro Local Government Area, Mr. Ishyaku Bawa, confirmed the incident during a telephone interview with journalists. He acknowledged that lives were lost and several others injured but noted that details were still emerging.
“We are currently at the hospital attending to the injured victims. I cannot provide full details at the moment,” he stated.
Efforts are ongoing to assess the full extent of the damage and ensure the safety of affected residents.
