Bandits Kill 35 in Kebbi Communities, Group Condemns ‘Barbaric’ Attack

The Kebbi Development Forum (KDF) has strongly condemned the deadly assault on eight communities in Arewa Local Government Area by suspected Lakurawa bandits, describing the killings as “barbaric, cowardly and a crime against humanity.”

No fewer than 35 residents are feared dead following the attack, which also saw large numbers of cattle rustled. Local sources describe it as one of the most violent incidents in the area in recent months, adding to a growing wave of bandit violence affecting border communities in Kebbi State.

In a statement issued on Sunday, KDF Chairman Saidu Illo extended the group’s condolences to the families of the victims, the Kebbi State Government, and the Argungu Emirate Council.

“The Kebbi Development Forum wishes to console and empathise with the victims of the Lakurawa attack on eight communities of Arewa Local Government Area, where 35 lives were said to have been lost,” the statement read. “We pray to Almighty Allah to forgive the souls of those who lost their lives during these incidents.”

The forum also expressed solidarity with communities in Shanga, Ngaski, and Yauri local government areas, which have suffered similar attacks, warning that the persistent pattern of violence demands an urgent and coordinated response.

KDF further raised alarm over reported threats by bandits in Besse and Zaria Kala Kala in Koko-Besse Local Government Area, as well as Utono in Ngaski Local Government Area, alleging that criminal elements are moving freely and coercing residents.

“Failure to address the situation promptly may heighten tensions within affected communities and create conditions that could prove even more difficult to manage,” the forum warned.

While acknowledging ongoing efforts by the state government and security agencies, KDF called for a decentralised security response that empowers local authorities.

“Treating security challenges as the sole responsibility of the Federal or State Government is no longer sufficient, given the scale and complexity of the situation,” Illo stated. “Local institutions, including traditional and local government authorities, must be strengthened and empowered to support and coordinate community-based efforts aimed at enhancing safety and resilience.”

The forum also urged the Federal Government to strengthen cross-border collaboration to dismantle the criminal networks operating in the region.

Police Confirm 33 Killed in Bui District Attack

Meanwhile, the Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed that 33 persons were killed in the attack on Bui District, Arewa Local Government Area.

In a statement issued in Birnin Kebbi, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, explained that the incident occurred on Wednesday when suspected Lakurawa militants crossed into the area, reportedly from Gudu Local Government Area in neighbouring Sokoto State, with the intent to rustle cattle.

According to the police, residents of the affected communities including Mamunu, Awasaka, Tungan Tsoho, Makangara, Kanzo, Gorun Naidal, and Dan Mai Ago mobilised to confront the invaders.

“In the ensuing confrontation, 33 persons lost their lives,” Usman confirmed.

He added that the command, in collaboration with the military and other security agencies, has since reinforced its presence in the affected communities to prevent further attacks.