Two people killed as over 1,000 gunmen attack communities in Niger

Over 1,000 armed gunmen have allegedly taken over communities in the Akere axis of Zungeru, Wushishi Local Government Area of Niger State and killing two person.

The incident it was gathered occurred on Thursday morning.

The bandits riding on motorcycles were said to have blocked Minna/ Kontagora highway at Kundu and moving to Akere area towards Mashegu local council without security to hinder their movement.

This development is coming barely a week after the state Governor Mohammed Bago, in an interview on a national television, claimed that there is no hardship in the state and it is safe for investors and citizens.

Sources from the area said the bandits, estimated to be around 2,000, were well-armed and carried sophisticated weapons.

The sources disclosed that the bandits shot two people, killing one civilian and a vigilante, while another civilian was rushed to the hospital for medical attention.

A community leader described the current attack as the first in history, seeing such a large number of bandits armed with sophisticated weapons in the area.

He appealed to the state and federal governments to deploy security operatives to protect the areas and residents who have fled their homes for safety.

It was further learnt that communities in the axis are stranded in Zungeru town, seeking safety.

When contacted for reaction, the State Police Public Relations Officer PPRO SP Wasiu Abiodun who did not confirm the development, promised to verify from Zungeru axis before giving comments on the matter.

Two people killed as over 1,000 gunmen attack communities in Niger