The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed a tragic incident where 11 individuals lost their lives and six villages were destroyed by Lakurawa militants in the Arewa Local Government Area as a reprisal act. The attack, which took place in response to the killing of a militant leader named Maigemu by security forces, resulted in devastating repercussions. The assailants targeted Birnin Dede and neighboring communities, setting houses on fire, with only one village being spared due to military presence.
The Kebbi State police spokesperson, Nafiu Abubakar, verified the incident, stating that initial reports indicated 13 casualties and eight villages destroyed, but further investigations revealed 11 fatalities and two individuals critically injured. Abubakar assured that efforts were underway to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
Chairman of Arewa Local Government Council, Alhaji Sani Aliyu, mentioned that the deceased had been laid to rest following Islamic customs. He also emphasized that the militant attack was a retaliation for the recent security operation that resulted in the death of Maigemu, a notorious bandit leader, as part of the ongoing counter-terrorism measures in the area.
Security forces have heightened their presence to apprehend the attackers and restore peace to the affected regions.