Gunmen Attack Shiroro Communities; Five Dead, 150 Abducted
SHIRORO, NIGER STATE – At least five people have been confirmed dead and an estimated 150 others abducted following a violent raid by suspected bandits on the Baga community and surrounding villages in the Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
The attackers, reportedly arriving in large numbers from neighboring Kaduna State, launched a coordinated assault using sophisticated weaponry and explosive devices. Witnesses described a scene of devastation as the gunmen set numerous houses ablaze, sending plumes of smoke across the district.
Details of the Assault
According to local sources, the invaders met resistance from members of the local vigilante group. However, the gunmen overwhelmed the volunteers, leaving several vigilantes with serious injuries. Those wounded are currently receiving emergency medical treatment at a nearby hospital.
As the violence escalated, many residents fled into the surrounding bush for safety. Reports indicate that some were caught in the crossfire or hunted down during their escape, while others were rounded up and moved to an unknown location.
Official Response
The Chairman of Shiroro Local Government, Mr. Ishyaku Bawa, confirmed the incident during a telephone briefing with journalists. While acknowledging the casualties and the scale of the displacement, Bawa noted that a full assessment is still underway.
"Yes, bandits invaded the community. Some villagers were killed, while others sustained injuries," Bawa stated. "We are currently at the hospital focused on the care of the injured. I cannot provide further details at this moment."
Security Reinforcements
In response to the crisis, security personnel have been deployed to the area to restore order and initiate search-and-rescue operations for the abducted villagers. The heavy presence of security forces aims to deter further incursions as the community begins to grapple with the aftermath of the attack.
The Niger State Police Command has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the specific number of casualties or the progress of the rescue mission.