More than 40 people, including security operatives, vigilantes and civilians, are feared to have been killed following a coordinated terrorist attack on Bagna, Erena and Yelwa communities in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
Sources indicated that the assault, which began with an ambush on a security camp, claimed the lives of about 30 special forces personnel and operatives of secret security units, alongside at least 10 vigilantes. However, the actual death toll is believed to be significantly higher.
Residents said the attackers stormed the Bagna community early Tuesday morning, forcing many to flee as houses were set ablaze.
A local source, who requested anonymity, disclosed that over 200 armed terrorists invaded the area, using explosives to destroy homes. “As of this evening, the Bagna community is on fire, with thick smoke billowing into the sky,” the source said.
Further reports revealed that at least 10 vigilantes were killed and several others injured when their camp—shared with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS)—was overrun and set on fire as they attempted to repel the attackers. The sources noted that the local defenders were overwhelmed by the terrorists’ superior firepower.
The incident is believed to have followed earlier attacks on Monday, when the assailants rustled cattle from Nada village before advancing into Bagna, where they launched multiple assaults.
Confirming the development, the Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Morris Magaji, acknowledged the attack but did not provide specific details on casualties.
