Deadly bandit attacks have ravaged communities in Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving about 16 people, mainly vigilantes, dead, and 42 residents abducted.

Waploaded gathered that the attacks occurred between November 9 and November 13, 2025, forcing residents to flee their communities in search of safety.

On November 9, gunmen reportedly invaded Dutsen Magaji community where they whisked away 22 persons to an unknown destination.

Sources said vigilantes in the area engaged the attackers in a gun battle, leading to the death of three vigilantes, while five others sustained injuries.

Similarly, on November 13, the bandits struck Magama village during early morning prayers, surrounding a mosque.

During the confrontation, 13 vigilantes were said to have been killed, while over 20 persons were abducted from the community.

Confirming the incidents, the Press Secretary to the Mashegu Local Government Chairman, Mal. Isah Ibrahim Bokuta, said the vigilantes fought fearlessly in their efforts to defend their communities.

He described them as fallen heroes who paid the supreme price to protect their people.

It was further gathered that residents of communities such as Dutsen Magaji, Borin-Aiki, Gidan Ruwa, and Magama have fled to neighbouring villages for shelter.

Efforts to get the reaction of the Niger State Police Command through its Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.