Tragedy struck in Niger State as no fewer than 30 members of a Volunteer Security outfit called “Yan Sa Kai” were killed by gunmen suspected to be bandits at Dogon-Dawa community in Mariga local government area of the State.

It was gathered that the incident occurred on Saturday, April 6, 2024, in the morning, during a clash between the said security outfit and the suspected bandits in the area.

It was reliably gathered that the “Yan Sa Kai” were trailing the suspected bandits’ movement into their hideout and unexpectedly ambushed them, leading to casualties from both sides after a serious exchange of gunfire.

Sources, who pleaded anonymity, said that there were casualties from the suspected armed bandits’ side but refused to mention the exact number of the bandits injured or killed.

The Executive Chairman of Mariga Local Government Council, Hon. Abbas Kasuwar Garba, who confirmed the incident in an interview by telephone, expressed concern as residents prepared for the farming season sequel to peace. He, however, called for calm as the government would investigate the immediate or remote circumstances leading to the incident.

Efforts to get a response from the Niger State government and the State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Wasiu Abiodun, at the time of filing this report were not successful. (Nigerian Tribune)