Bandits storm Niger community again, burn police station, church, abduct five

Bandits have again attacked Agwara local government area of Niger state, setting ablaze the divisional police station and a church, and abducting about five villagers in an early Sunday raid.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers invaded the area in the early hours, firing sporadically to scare residents before carrying out the assault. The police station was reportedly overrun and razed, while the church was also burned, causing significant damage to property and heightening fears among locals.

The five abducted victims are believed to have been taken to an unknown location, as families and community members plead for urgent intervention from security agencies.

This latest incident adds to growing concerns over persistent insecurity in parts of Niger State, despite repeated assurances by authorities to curb banditry and protect rural communities. Residents are calling on the government to strengthen security presence and prevent further attacks.

Security agencies are yet to issue an official statement on the incident as investigations continue.