From Olanrewaju Lawal, Birnin Kebbi
Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed that 16 people died during the attack on Taunga-Taura and Tungan-Ladan villages, Augie Local Government, Kebbi State, by suspected Lakurawa terrorists.
Kebi State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Nafiu Abubakar, in a statement on behalf of Commissioner of Police,Bello M.Sani,said,”on April,5,2025, at about 6:pm, suspected Lakurawa bandits in their large numbers armed with sophisticated weapons invaded Tungan Taura and Tungan Ladan villages, all in Augie LGA, of Kebbi State, and rustled unspecified number of cows.
“As a result, 16 people lost their lives, when the suspects were confronted while trying to escape with the cows.
“On receipt of the report, CP Bello M Sani condemned the unfortunate incident and deployed additional tactical units of the Police, Military, Civil Defense and vigilante to the affected communities with a view to trailing and apprehending the perpetrators of the ugly incident.
“The CP equally reiterated the Command’s readiness in combating banditry and other heinous crimes in the state”.
Abubakar added that normalcy has been restored to the affected areas and thorough investigation has commenced.
Meanwhile, state Governor, Nasir Idris, has donated N50 million to the families of the vigilance members killed and others injured in the Sunday’s attack
The governor announced the donation yesterday, during condolence visit to Yola District,where he sympathized with the families of the victims.
He described the gesture as a modest effort by the state government to support the bereaved families and the injured during this difficult time, emphasizing that it was not a compensation for the tragic loss.
“Bandits often infiltrate Kebbi from other states, carry out attacks, and retreat, taking advantage of the relaxed security measures in those areas.
“We have been doing our best, unlike our neighbours.These bandits are exploiting the lack of proactive approach in those states, entering Kebbi to commit atrocities and flee afterward.”
He advised residents and vigilantes not to pursue the bandits, urging them to leave such actions to security agencies to avoid further casualties.
He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and property, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to spending any amount necessary to ensure the safety of all citizens.
He noted that significant progress had been made in restoring peace to Kebbi South and vowed to extend those gains across the entire state.
“We will not despair or relent until every part of Kebbi is safe for all,” the governor assured.
The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Mohammed Mera, commended the governor for the visit and the financial support given to the victims families, describing the gesture as timely and impactful on the victims’ families”.
He also praised government’s efforts in addressing security challenges and echoed the call for civilians to avoid direct confrontation with the bandits.
Chairman of Augie Local Government, Alhaji Yahaya Augie, also lauded the governor’s swift intervention, both in supporting the victims and in combating the recurring security threats in the area.
He encouraged residents to share intelligence with security agencies rather than engaging bandits directly.
On Sunday, suspected Lakurawa bandits,launched coordinated attacks on villages of Garu, Murai, Unguwar Ladan, Unguwar Mai Rakumi, Unguwar Mai Turu, and Binnani.
They rustled cattle and ambushed a group of vigilantes who were pursuing them, killing several of them in the process.