Terrorists masquerading as bandits have reportedly killed 13 people including security operatives in an attack on some communities in Mariga local government area of Niger state.
The incident was said to have occurred on Tuesday July 8, 2025 around 4pm in an invasion by the bandits riding in over 100 motorcycles.
Witness account said the bandits were seen carrying sophisticated weapons apparently fleeing from Zamfara state.
It was learnt that three communities attacked in the process are Kumbashi, Bangi and Mongoro and that two members of vigilantes and one police personnel unfortunately lost their lives in the attack.
The Chairman of the Mariga local government area, Alhaji Abbas Kasuwa Garba, confirmed the development to journalists in Minna on Wednesday.
He said there is now serious tension within the area due to the continued presence of the bandits.
It was learnt that the bandits were out for reprisal attacks on the communities following the recent Air Force raid on their hideouts leading to many casualties on their side.
An eyewitness said the armed men also blew off a communication mast to halt communication in the area in order to carry out operations in those communities.
He added that the bandits were out for alleged reprisal attacks on the communities following the recent Air Force raid on hideouts of the criminals leading to severe casualties on their side.