Terrorists kill five, set houses ablaze in Niger community

Suspected terrorists have killed at least five persons, three of whom were members of a vigilante group in Bagna community, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, forcing residents to flee their homes in panic.

Nigerian Tribune gathered that the heavily armed terrorists killed the victims in a gun duel before setting the community ablaze on Tuesday.

The attackers unleashed violence and destruction on helpless villagers, triggering a mass exodus as the gunmen reportedly set houses on fire using explosives.

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said over 160 terrorists invaded the community, leaving a trail of devastation.

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“More than 160 of them came early this morning and have been burning houses with explosives. As I speak this evening, Baga is still on fire with thick smoke rising into the sky,” he said.

It was also learned that at least eight members of the local vigilante group sustained injuries in the process.

The vigilantes were said to have been overwhelmed by the superior firepower and number of the assailants.

Sources also revealed that the attackers had earlier, on Monday, rustled several cattle from nearby Nada village within the same local government area.

The terrorists were believed to have strayed into Bagna community after losing their way.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Niger State, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said armed bandits attacked communities in the area, leading to casualties among security personnel.

“Armed bandits invaded Bagna and Erena villages. Two vigilante members and a driver from the joint security team lost their lives during the attack,” he stated.

The latest attack is one in a series of violent incursions in Shiroro and other parts of Niger State, raising fresh concerns over escalating insecurity in the state.