A wave of shock has hit the Palaita community in Niger State after armed bandits abducted 24 people, including pregnant women, during a Wednesday afternoon raid. The victims were seized while harvesting rice, despite the community being just five kilometres from a military base.
On the same day, another armed group attacked nearby Kakuru community, assaulting a blind resident and severing his right hand after stealing a mobile phone. He is currently receiving first aid treatment in a neighbouring settlement.
Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed both attacks and said security efforts are underway to rescue the abducted residents. Community members like Yahuza Allawa recounted the panic and helplessness that gripped the area during the assault.
These incidents follow the mass abduction of more than 300 students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri last week, highlighting the deepening insecurity confronting northern Nigeria.
