Armed Bandits Kill 18 Worshippers in Niger Community

By Izunna Okafor

Armed bandits have reportedly killed 18 persons at Maza-Kuka in the Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State.

Sources said that the armed men who stormed the community went straight to the mosque while the victims were performing their morning prayers (Subhi) and shot the victims at closed range, leading to the death of scores, and leaving many others injured.

It was gathered that the armed men came on motorbikes to carry out the attack on the villagers

An indigene of the community who craved anonymity said, “We are surprised, confused and shocked over the attack.”

He added that they could not ascertain the actual casualties because many people had run into the bush for safety. He noted that about 18 corpses were discovered as of the time of filing this report.

The villager also confirmed that the local government Chairman and his team were already in the community to sympathise and commiserate with the people.

The Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Wasiu  Abiodun, could not be reached to speak on the attack.