The Kebbi State Police Command has verified that 33 people lost their lives following an attack on Bui District in Arewa Local Government Area linked to a violent cattle-rustling operation.
The command’s spokesperson, Bashir Usman, disclosed this in a statement, explaining that security reinforcements had been dispatched to the affected communities.
“In response, the Command, in collaboration with the military and other security agencies, has deployed additional personnel and operational assets to the affected area. Sustained area domination patrols are currently underway to restore and maintain stability,” Usman’s statement read.
Authorities conveyed deep sorrow over the fatalities and extended condolences to grieving families as well as residents of the wider Arewa community.
According to the statement, early findings show that suspected Lakurawa militants moved into Bui District with the intention of rustling cattle. The attackers reportedly entered from Gudu Local Government Area in neighbouring Sokoto State.
Residents from Mamunu, Awasaka, Tungan Tsoho, Makangara, Kanzo, Gorun Naidal, and Dan Mai Ago were said to have mobilised in reaction to the incursion, resulting in a deadly clash with the armed group.
“Preliminary investigations confirm that armed Lakurawa militants entered the area to rustle cattle,” the police said.
“The Command emphasizes that incidents involving armed criminal elements require coordinated security intervention,” the statement read.
“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.”
Local and security sources indicated that the gunmen invaded villages in the remote border district, firing on residents in what survivors described as coordinated and indiscriminate attacks. The violence caused widespread panic, forcing many people to flee as homes were stormed and civilians shot at.
Security personnel have since been deployed to safeguard the communities, provide assistance to survivors, and seal off possible escape routes, while tracking operations continue.