Four killed as Bbandits attack Niger communities, hospital

Four civilians have been killed and several houses destroyed after armed bandits attacked two communities and a hospital amid renewed communal clashes between Fulani and Kamuku groups in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed the incident in a post on X, stating that the attacks took place on July 4 following fresh hostilities between the two communities.

According to Makama, troops of the 45 Battalion stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Kagara launched a fighting patrol to Baka Cin Hatsi and surrounding villages after receiving reports of the violence.

The troops confirmed that the attackers stormed Anguwan Gizo and Anguwan Karaya villages, killing four civilians and setting several homes on fire.

The assailants also attacked Asmau Hospital, where displaced Fulani residents had taken shelter from the violence.

Makama said security personnel have since taken control of the affected communities to prevent further attacks and reassure residents.

He added that the Rafi Local Government authorities have imposed a 12-hour curfew, from 7:00 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., to prevent reprisal attacks and restore peace in the area.

According to him, security forces will maintain a strong presence while efforts continue to identify and apprehend those behind the attacks.