Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Armed bandits attacked Kawon town in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger State late Sunday night, killing one person, injuring several others and abducting an unspecified number of residents, according to local sources.
Residents said the attackers stormed the community under cover of darkness, firing sporadically and causing widespread panic. One resident was confirmed dead following the assault, while multiple others sustained gunshot wounds. The injured were reportedly taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment, though the exact number of casualties had not been independently verified at the time of filing this report.
Witnesses indicated that the gunmen also kidnapped several individuals during the raid, but the precise number of abductees remained unclear. Families were still accounting for missing relatives as of Monday morning, heightening anxiety within the community.
Kawon town lies within Kontagora LGA, an area that has faced recurring security challenges linked to banditry and armed criminal groups operating in parts of north-central and northwestern Nigeria. Armed gangs have frequently targeted rural settlements and highways, engaging in kidnapping for ransom, cattle rustling and violent raids. The forested terrain surrounding sections of Niger State has often provided cover for such groups, complicating security operations.
Community members described scenes of confusion as residents fled their homes to escape the gunfire. Many reportedly sought refuge in nearby settlements or remained indoors overnight amid fears of further attacks. The latest incident has intensified concerns over the safety of rural communities in the region.
As of press time, security agencies had not issued an official statement detailing the scale of the attack or confirming operational responses underway. It remains unclear whether security forces had been deployed to track the assailants or conduct search-and-rescue operations for those abducted.
Niger State has in recent years witnessed a pattern of armed violence affecting several local government areas. Authorities have carried out joint security operations involving the military, police and other agencies aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring stability. Despite these efforts, sporadic attacks continue to occur, particularly in remote communities.
Residents of Kawon have called for urgent and sustained intervention from security agencies, including increased patrols and the establishment of permanent security posts to deter future incursions. Community leaders expressed concern that repeated attacks could lead to displacement and further economic disruption in an area heavily dependent on farming and local trade.
Security analysts note that swift response following such incidents is critical to preventing further casualties and improving the chances of rescuing abducted victims. They also emphasise the importance of strengthened intelligence gathering and collaboration between local communities and formal security institutions.
The situation remains fluid as families await confirmation of the number of abductees and the condition of the injured. Further updates are expected once authorities provide official details on the incident and the steps being taken to address the security breach.
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