The Niger Police Command has confirmed the killing of three people by suspected bandits in Pissa village, Borgu Local Government Area.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, who confirmed the incident on Saturday, noted that the bandits attacked the village at about 9:00a.m.

Abiodun said some houses were set ablaze during the attack, and that the bandits were engaged by the military. However, details of the encounter remained sketchy.

“The report received indicated that suspected bandits invaded Pissa village in Borgu LGA.

“Three persons were reportedly killed during the attack and some houses were set ablaze.

“However, the military responded and engaged the terrorists, but further details are still sketchy,” he said. 

Gunmen suspected to kidnapper have abducted the traditional ruler of Ode Oriya in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Adeniyi Adelana

Adelana, 60, was abducted from his residence when the gunmen, numbering about six, invaded the community around 8:30 pm on Saturday.

According to sources, the gunmen, who were fully armed, shot the wife of the village before whisking her husband away into the forest.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the development, saying the woman is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

According to the police spokesperson, operatives were swiftly mobilised to the scene of the incident, with tactical teams deployed to comb the forest as well as other parts of the adjoining community to rescue the victim.

He said, “A comprehensive search-and-rescue operation was immediately activated, with security operatives combing nearby forests, bush paths and suspected escape routes in a determined effort to track the movement of the kidnappers, secure the victim’s safe release and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that the victim is reunited safely with his family while all those involved face the full weight of the law.

“The Ondo State Police Command urges members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear. Residents are encouraged to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that may aid ongoing operations.” 

At least 20 people have been killed in an attack by suspected bandits on Fesken Rafi community in Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State, prompting renewed concerns over insecurity in the area.

The Kebbi State Government expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing the attack as tragic and extending condolences to the families of the victims and residents of the affected community.

Leading a government delegation on a condolence visit on Saturday, Deputy Governor Umar Tafida assured residents that the state government remains committed to tackling insecurity and safeguarding lives and property across Kebbi.

He announced that additional security personnel and operational resources would be deployed to the area to strengthen security operations, restore normalcy and prevent further attacks.

“We share in your grief and remain committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property across Kebbi State,” the deputy governor said during the visit.

The Chairman of Arewa Local Government Area, Sani Tela, and the member representing Arewa Constituency in the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Nuradeen Kangiwa, told the delegation that the attack occurred a few days earlier and resulted in significant loss of life.

They commended Governor Nasir Idris for the administration’s efforts to combat insecurity and for its response to the plight of affected communities.

Traditional leaders, including the Dikkon Kabi, Alhaji Kabiru Sulaiman, who represented the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, and the District Head of Bui, Alhaji Abubakar Dan-Malam, also praised the government’s intervention.

The traditional rulers appealed for the construction of a road linking Fesken Rafi to the main highway, saying improved access would enhance security response, facilitate economic activities and improve the living conditions of residents.

The attack highlights the continuing security challenges facing rural communities in parts of Kebbi State despite ongoing efforts by security agencies and the state government to curb banditry and other criminal activities.