Residents of communities in Niger State have raised alarm over the reported sighting of suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group in the Zugurma axis of Mashegu Local Government Area.

The presence of the terrorists has heightened fears among residents over a possible attack in the area, which shares boundaries with Mokwa Local Government Area.

The Lakurawa group, who have been linked to attacks in parts of Borgu and Agwara Local Government Areas, were reportedly sighted in large numbers on motorcycles and armed with sophisticated weapons.

Sources within the community said the terrorists were seen moving around freely in the area.

According to the sources, the suspected terrorists may have been conducting surveillance to study the terrain for possible future attacks.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, disclosed that a group of bandits blocked the Mokwa–Bussa Road and later invaded Zugurma village in Mashegu Local Government Area.

He stated, “Joint security operatives swiftly responded to the incident, forcing the attackers to retreat. The road was cleared for motorists and normalcy restored.” (Nigerian Tribune)