An explosion struck a gathering of local vigilantes in the Kukoki-Bassa community within the Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, resulting in seven fatalities and eight injuries. The incident occurred on a Thursday as the group convened to coordinate a response against advancing bandits in the region.

Details of the Event

The assembly of community security members was targeted during a strategic meeting prompted by intelligence regarding bandit movements. Reports indicate that approximately 250 motorcycles, alongside rustled cattle, were being utilized by suspected criminals in the vicinity.

During the meeting, three aircraft were observed overhead, and one reportedly released an explosive device directly onto the gathering. The blast caused severe casualties, with four victims from Kukoki, one from Bassa, and three from Matuku losing their lives. Eight others sustained critical injuries, including severe trauma such as the loss of both legs.

Evacuation and Aftermath

Immediate rescue efforts involved transporting the wounded out of the remote area via motorcycles before transferring them to the IBB Specialist Hospital in Minna for medical treatment. Neighboring vigilantes from the Rafi Local Government Area assisted with funeral rites for the deceased.

The Niger State Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, facilitated the logistics for evacuating the injured following distress calls from the community. However, community leaders reported a lack of formal assistance from state or local authorities afterward, leading to widespread desertion of the area due to heightened fears of subsequent attacks.

Official Response

Authorities from the Niger State Government, the Nigerian Air Force, and other security branches have not yet released an official statement regarding the cause of the explosion or verified claims concerning the origin of the airstrike.