‎‎Gunmen Kill Over 20 in Niger, Plateau; Dozens Feared Dead in Kebbi‎‎

‎‎‎‎Gunmen have reportedly killed more than 20 people across communities in Niger State, with dozens also feared dead in similar attacks in Kebbi State.‎‎In Plateau State, suspected terrorists carried out fresh assaults on Tuesday, targeting a mining site in Kok village, Ropp District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, where one person was killed and two others injured. Another attack in Chenye village, Bachi District of Riyom LGA, claimed one life.‎‎Reports from Kebbi indicate that suspected bandits launched coordinated raids on several communities, including Debbe and Shabanda, setting houses on fire and killing many residents.‎‎According to Reuters, the attack in Niger State occurred in Shiroro LGA, where armed assailants reportedly operated for hours, destroying homes and overpowering local security efforts. Many residents fled to nearby towns such as Gwada, Zumba, and Galadima Kogo for safety.‎‎The spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed that Bagna and Erena villages were attacked. He stated that two community guards and a driver were killed, while several others sustained injuries.‎‎In Plateau, the victim of the Barkin Ladi attack was identified as 36-year-old Ayuba Pam. The incident occurred around 6:10 p.m. as workers were leaving the mining site. Witnesses reported that the attackers opened fire indiscriminately before fleeing.‎‎A resident of Bachit community in Riyom, Nefort Daniel, said gunmen stormed the area and shot a man dead during the attack.‎‎Meanwhile, the Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the incidents but noted that casualty figures are still being verified. Police spokesperson Bashir Usman said suspected armed groups attacked the villages late at night, resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property.‎‎He added that police tactical teams responded promptly, engaging the attackers, neutralising two of them, and recovering military and immigration uniforms believed to belong to the suspects.‎‎Usman also assured residents that additional security personnel have been deployed to the affected areas to prevent further violence and urged the public to remain calm as investigations continue.‎

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