Bandits Strike Again In Niger State

Bandits have attacked two communities in Niger State, where they abducted 24 people and brutalised a blind resident in separate raids carried out on Wednesday.

The assaults happened in Palaita community in Erena Local Government Area, adding to growing fears among villagers already struggling with regular invasions.

Witnesses said the first attack took place on a farmland where labourers were harvesting crops. Armed men reportedly surrounded the workers and forced them into the bush. A pregnant woman was among those taken, leaving families in distress as they waited for news.

In another raid within the same local government area, a blind man was attacked after he was accused of refusing to cooperate with the criminals. Residents said the bandits cut off his arm before fleeing, a development that shocked many in the community.

Villagers described the attacks as sudden and terrifying, noting that the bandits moved quickly and targeted vulnerable groups. People who fled the scenes said they could still hear gunshots as they ran for safety.

The back-to-back assaults have caused panic across the neighbouring settlements. Many residents are afraid to go to their farms or move freely, fearing the bandits might return.

Community leaders and locals are urging the government to take swift action to stop the rising violence. They say more security support is needed to protect residents and restore calm to the area.