An unknown number of local vigilante group members have reportedly been killed by an unidentified bomber aircraft in Galadima Kogo community of Shiroro Local Government Council of Niger state.
It was reliably gathered that a yet-to-be ascertained number of vigilante members, including their Commander, were seriously injured in the attack.
The incident reportedly occurred when the said aircraft bombed the camp of the vigilantes who were preparing for a counter-attack against a group of bandits that had raided their community earlier in the week.
During the (bandits) attack, several villagers were reported to have been kidnapped and a huge number of cattle rustled.
Other sources have, however, suggested that the aerial bombing of the vigilantes was probably a case of mistaking identity.
When contacted on telephone, Niger state Commissioner for Internal Security and Humanitarian Affairs, Emmanuel Umar confirmed the incident, saying it was “not clear” about the casualty figures.
According to him, “Niger state Government is battling with the survivors and injured” as well as how to restore peace to the area and Niger state as a whole.
Meanwhile, Concerned Shiroro Youths have raised an alarm about the invasion by bandits of three local government areas, namely, Shiroro, Munya and Paikoro. They called on relevant bodies to “do the needful without further delay”, in order to safeguard lives and property.
Reporting by Aliyu Lawal; Editing by Abdullahi Lamino and Tony Okerafor