Bandits have launched a violent assault on communities in Mashegu local government area of Niger State, resulting in the death of 16 vigilante members and the abduction of 42 residents.
According to local sources, the attacks occurred between Sunday, November 9, and Thursday, November 13, 2025, causing many communities to be abandoned as residents fled for safety.
Initial reports indicate that Dutsen Magaji village was attacked on Sunday, where 22 people were taken hostage by the bandits.
“The vigilantes who pursued the bandits engaged them in a gun battle, leading to the death of three vigilantes and leaving five others hospitalized,” a source recounted.
The attackers reportedly returned on Thursday at dawn, targeting Magama village during early morning prayers. They surrounded the mosque and abducted over 20 individuals.
In a tragic turn, vigilantes who pursued the bandits were ambushed, resulting in 13 deaths and multiple injuries.
Isah Ibrahim Bokuta, the Press Secretary to the chairman of Mashegu LGA, confirmed the incidents, honoring the fallen vigilantes as heroes who bravely defended their communities.
Bokuta also expressed the local government’s gratitude for their courageous and selfless efforts to maintain security in the area.
In response, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, assured the public of ongoing efforts to address the violence.
