Armed bandits have launched a deadly attack on multiple communities in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State, killing scores of villagers and rustling over 200 cattle in a violent raid that occurred on Tuesday.

The affected communities include Zagzaga, Chibani, and Kuch, where the heavily armed attackers, reportedly numbering over 100, wreaked havoc on residents and their properties.

According to local sources, the bandits moved systematically from one community to another, setting houses ablaze, looting food supplies, and abducting several residents. Many villagers were forced to flee their homes in search of safety as the attack intensified.

In a concerning development, the attackers also targeted a camp of the Joint Security Task Force stationed in Kuchi community, setting it on fire and forcing security personnel to retreat. Sources from the affected areas alleged that the bandits had gathered at Kusasu community in neighboring Shiroro Local Government Area before launching the coordinated assault.

Maj-Gen. Bello Abdullahi Mohammed (rtd), the Commissioner for Homeland Security, confirmed the incident but noted he was awaiting detailed reports. "There has been incidents of bandit attacks in the area. However, I have not yet received a detailed report regarding this specific attack," he stated.

Jonathan Vatsa, Special Adviser to the governor on Communication, Media and Strategy, condemned the attack in strong terms, describing it as "barbaric, wicked, and inhumane." He expressed frustration that "these enemies of the people have continued to carry out relentless attacks on innocent villagers."

Vatsa also highlighted the role of local informants in undermining security efforts, stating that their activities have "continued to frustrate government's efforts in bringing the security challenges under control to ensure meaningful development in the state."

Attempts to reach Aminu Najume, the Chairman of Munya Local Government, were unsuccessful as he could not be contacted at the time of reporting.

This attack adds to the growing list of security challenges facing Niger State and other northwestern states in Nigeria, where banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling have become increasingly common in recent years, displacing thousands and disrupting local economies.