Kebbi Police Bolster Security After Deadly Raid Claims 33 Lives

The Kebbi State Police Command has deployed additional forces to Bui District in Arewa Local Government Area following a violent attack by suspected armed cattle rustlers that left at least 33 people dead earlier this week.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, confirmed that police operatives, in collaboration with the military and other security agencies, have reinforced presence in the affected communities.

“Sustained area domination patrols are currently ongoing to stabilize the district and prevent further breakdown of law and order,” SP Usman stated. He added that the Command deeply regrets the loss of lives and extended its condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Arewa community.

According to preliminary police findings, the assailants, believed to be Lakurawa militants, entered Bui District on February 18 with the intent to steal cattle. The attackers are suspected to have crossed into the area from neighbouring Gudu Local Government Area.

In the wake of the raid, residents from several communities, including Mamunu, Awasaka, and Tungan Tsoho, mobilized in an attempt to confront the armed group, leading to a fatal clash.

Authorities have cautioned members of the public against taking such direct action, emphasizing that engaging heavily armed criminal elements poses grave dangers. “Residents are urged to report suspicious movements through established security channels rather than confronting the criminals directly,” SP Usman warned.

Security forces have since launched targeted operations aimed at tracking down the perpetrators, blocking potential escape routes, and reinforcing early warning systems across the troubled region. The Command has called for calm and cooperation from the public as efforts to restore lasting peace intensify.

Earlier reports from the area indicated that the coordinated daylight attacks had triggered widespread panic across communities in the wider Kebbi North Senatorial District.