The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed the killing of eight innocent people by bandits after they attacked three villages of Kaiwa, Gelawu and Gebbe in Shanga Local Government Areas of the state.

Police Public Relations Officer PPRO of the command, SP Bashir Usman, confirmed this in a message sent to newsmen about the incident.

The incident which occurred on Sunday night, has already displaced many villagers who fled for their dear lives.

While confirming the attacks, the PPRO said, “the Police acknowledged the incident and confirm that coordinated security operations are ongoing.

“About seven persons across Kaiwa, Gelawu and Gebbe villages lost their lives during the attack, with one additional victim later confirmed dead while receiving treatment, while another victim is currently responding to medical care.

“Security agencies have sustained coordinated operations within the affected areas, with intensified patrols and surveillance to forestall further breaches, and further details will be made available at the appropriate time, as the operation is still ongoing,” he said.

However, sources at the affected areas explained that the attackers stormed the community on Sunday night and opened fire, triggering panic and forcing residents to flee to neighbouring villages and nearby bushes for safety.

They described the incident as unprecedented in the area, noting that Gebbe community had not experienced such a large-scale attack in recent years. They added that many residents remain displaced, making it difficult to immediately ascertain the number of casualties. (The Sun)