44 Killed in Coordinated Bandit Attack on Kebbi Communities as Police Launch Massive Clearance Operation

By Tgnews Reporter

The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed that 44 people were killed in a coordinated bandit attack on several communities in Shanga Local Government Area, prompting a statewide security clearance operation targeting high-risk zones.

The affected villages include Gebe, Kalkami, Kawara, Kasoshi, Awaye, Tungar Rini, Binuwa, and Dabe. Attackers reportedly struck multiple communities simultaneously, exploiting difficult terrain in the border region.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Kebbi State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, said the operation was launched on the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, to curb further banditry and violent crimes across the state.

“Massive deployments of police personnel and other security agencies have been made to the affected communities, leading to the return of relative calm,” Usman stated.

The ongoing clearance operation is focusing on farmlands, forests, border communities, and remote settlements. It includes coordinated patrols, intelligence-led stop-and-search operations, and joint actions with other security agencies.

As part of the operation, security forces recovered two AK-47 rifles along the Illo-Kamba axis, which police described as evidence of the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Hadejia, called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information. He also urged traditional rulers, community leaders, religious bodies, and youth groups to support efforts to restore lasting peace in the state.

Discreet investigations into the attack have commenced, the command added.

While police put the death toll at 44, the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora earlier raised concerns over reports of at least 24 deaths and mass displacement in a related incident in the area, with places of worship reportedly affected. Victims reportedly cut across Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers.

The police have not commented directly on the discrepancy at the time of filing this report.

Kebbi State has witnessed a surge in banditry and violent attacks in recent times, particularly in border communities with Niger State, where difficult terrain often aids attackers.

Residents in the affected areas are urged to go about their lawful activities while remaining security-conscious.