Violence erupted in northern Nigeria on Sunday and Monday as heavily armed bandits launched separate attacks on security forces in Niger and Katsina states.
In Katsina, at least 20 people were killed and others abducted by gunmen June 9 in villages in Kankara county (Local Government Area).
The bandits also ambushed a police patrol team responding to the distress call, killing four police officers and two members of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps, a local citizen-guards group.
While details remain scarce, local media reported a separate bandit attack unfolded in Niger State on Monday. Soldiers stationed at Tegina in Rafi county suffered two casualties when bandits attacked their military base.
The bandits were reportedly crossing over to neighboring counties, Mashegu and Wushishi, and decided to cause mayhem. A fierce firefight ensued, resulting in the death of one outlaw while two security personnel were wounded.
These attacks come amid ongoing concerns about banditry and violence in northern Nigeria. Criminal and insurgent gangs have been responsible for numerous kidnappings, killings, and cattle thefts in the region, creating a climate of fear and insecurity.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
