Several military personnel, police officers, and civilians lost their lives following a deadly ambush by gunmen in Giro Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, on Tuesday night.
While the exact number of security casualties has not been confirmed, local sources said at least two residents were killed, according to Channels.
Eyewitnesses revealed that the attackers had been active within the community and surrounding areas before they were traced to a construction company yard. Security operatives, acting on intelligence provided by residents, moved to the location but were ambushed on their way.
During the assault, the gunmen reportedly set two military gun trucks ablaze.
A resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, described the attack as chaotic and deadly.
“The gunmen came into our village and were heading towards the construction company yard. We alerted security personnel, but they were ambushed,” the source said.
Another resident recounted the panic that followed the attack.
“It was terrifying. People were running in all directions as the gunmen fired at the soldiers and set the trucks ablaze,” the resident added.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
Shanga Local Government Area, like other parts of Kebbi State, has in recent years experienced intermittent attacks by armed groups targeting both civilians and security operatives.
These attacks often involve ambushes along highways and in rural communities, with perpetrators frequently escaping into forests and other difficult terrains.
Although security agencies have carried out joint operations to tackle the menace, efforts have been hindered by challenges related to terrain, intelligence, and mobility.