In the early hours of January 3, suspected extremists, believed to be members of Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), also referred to as Lukurawa, launched a deadly attack at a police checkpoint in Garin Natshini Gada, Argungu local government area of Kebbi state. The assault left two police officers dead and over 2,000 cattle rustled.
Eyewitnesses reported that the Lukurawa extrimists, riding on motorbikes, overwhelmed the police personnel at the checkpoint, seizing two AK-47 rifles and other equipment. A police patrol vehicle was abandoned at the scene during the attack.
Security sources revealed that the extremists swiftly fled the area with the stolen cattle. Troops from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Argungu, working in coordination with reinforcements from Augie, responded promptly, conducting clearance patrols in the vicinity, located about 10 kilometers from Argungu town.
By the time the troops arrived, the assailants had vacated the scene. Locals indicated that the attackers retreated along familiar escape routes. Military forces have since secured the area and launched an active pursuit operation to apprehend the perpetrators and recover the stolen cattle.
The fallen officers’ remains have been transferred to the morgue, while intensified efforts are underway to bring the attackers to justice. Authorities have reassured the public of their commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.
