Over 32 killed as bandits launch fresh attacks on Niger communities

No fewer than 32 farmers have been killed following coordinated attacks by suspected bandits on Tunga-Makeri, Konsoko, and Pissa communities in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.

Residents who spoke with Daily Trust said the first assault occurred at Tunga-Makeri in Konkoso Ward at about 3:00 a.m., where six people were reportedly shot dead.

According to locals, the attackers later moved to Konsoko and Pissa communities around 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, firing indiscriminately and setting several buildings ablaze, including a police outpost.

During the second phase of the attack, about 26 more people were allegedly killed, while many others sustained injuries.

Sources also disclosed that the actual number of casualties in Pissa community, located in the Kabe/Pissa axis, is yet to be fully determined.

A resident, Hassan Abdullahi, said the attackers, numbering over 200, operated freely for several hours without resistance.

He explained that the raid began around 6:00 a.m. and lasted until about 10:00 a.m., noting that the affected communities are located nearly 200 kilometres from the Nigerian Air Force Base in New Bussa, the headquarters of Borgu Local Government Area.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Niger State Police Command, Wasiu Abiodun, said the attack on Tunga-Makeri took place in the early hours of Saturday.

He verified that six people were killed in the community, several houses were burnt, and an unspecified number of residents were abducted.

Abiodun also confirmed that the bandits later advanced to Konsoko village but noted that details of the incident were still unclear.

He said, “On 14/2/2026 at about 6:00 a.m., a report was received indicating that at about 3:00 a.m., suspected bandits invaded Tunga-Makeri village via Shafachi District in Borgu LGA.

“During the attack, six persons lost their lives, some houses were set ablaze, and a yet-to-be-ascertained number of persons were abducted. The terrorists were also reported to have moved to Konkoso village, while other details remain sketchy.

“Meanwhile, joint security teams have been mobilised to the area for assessment, and efforts to rescue the victims are ongoing.”

Residents have continued to appeal to security agencies for increased patrols and protection, as fear and tension persist across the affected communities.