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More than 30 civilians have been killed and several others abducted following a violent raid on Kasuwan Daji market in Niger State, authorities have confirmed.
The attack occurred in Demo village, with eyewitnesses describing a coordinated assault that left dozens dead and many families displaced.
Ejes Gist News reports that the attackers stormed the community in the late afternoon, opening fire on traders and residents before fleeing with abducted victims.
Attack Carried Out in Broad Daylight
According to local sources, the Bandits arrived on motorcycles around 4:30 pm on Saturday and began shooting indiscriminately at people gathered at the market.
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Many victims were caught unaware, while others attempted to flee into nearby homes and bushes.
Niger State Police spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident, stating that security operatives were deployed to the area following distress calls from residents.
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“Over 30 persons lost their lives during the attack, and several others were kidnapped,” Abiodun said.
Market Stalls Burned, Food Items Looted
Witnesses said the attackers burned multiple market stalls and looted food supplies before retreating into surrounding forest areas.
Security officials believe the Bandits escaped through nearby forest reserves, which have increasingly become safe havens for armed groups operating across Niger State and neighbouring regions.
Pattern of Violence in Niger Communities
The attack adds to a growing list of violent incidents across Niger State, which has recorded repeated killings, kidnappings, and village raids in recent months.
Several rural communities have been targeted due to limited security presence and difficult terrain that enables attackers to evade pursuit.
In previous incidents, armed groups have abducted schoolchildren, farmers, and traders, further deepening humanitarian and security concerns in the state.
Calls for Stronger Security Response
Residents of Demo village have renewed calls for increased security patrols, improved intelligence gathering, and sustained military operations around forest corridors linking Niger State to other flashpoints.
Authorities say investigations into the attack are ongoing, while efforts continue to locate abducted victims and identify those responsible.
