Kebbi attack: Confrontations with Lakurawa terrorists by villagers leads to death of 33 -- Police

From Olanrewaju Lawal, Birnin Kebbi

The Kebbi State Police Command has officially confirmed the killings of 33 villagers by Lakurawa terrorists in Biu district area of Arewa Local Government of the State and linked their death to the confrontations with the terror group.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the command, SP Bashir Usman who confirmed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Birnin Kebbi, disclosed that the terror group crossed into the district from Gudu Local Government Area of Sokoto State while residents from Mamunu, Awasaka, Tungan Tsoho, Makangara, Kanzo, Gorun Naidal, and Dan Mai Ago mobilized in response to cattle rustling which resulted to the fatal confrontation occurred.

According to the statement released: ” the Kebbi State Police Command has reinforced security presence in Bui District of Arewa Local Government Area following an armed cattle rustling incident on 18/02/2025. In collaboration with the Military and other security agencies, additional personnel and operational assets have been deployed, and sustained area domination patrols are ongoing to maintain stability.

“The Command deeply regrets the loss of thirty-three innocent lives and extends its heartfelt condolences to the families affected and the entire Arewa community.

“Preliminary investigations confirm that armed Lakurawa militants entered the area to rustle cattle. The assailants are believed to have crossed into the district from Gudu Local Government Area of Sokoto State. Residents from Mamunu, Awasaka, Tungan Tsoho, Makangara, Kanzo, Gorun Naidal, and Dan Mai Ago mobilized in response, during which the fatal confrontation occurred.

“The Command emphasizes that incidents involving armed criminal elements require coordinated security intervention. Members of the public are urged to promptly report suspicious movements through established security channels rather than engage directly, as such confrontations pose grave risks.

“Targeted operations are ongoing to track and apprehend the perpetrators, prevent recurrence, and strengthen early warning mechanisms”.