Residents said the attackers struck around 3:00 a.m., just days after allegedly issuing a warning to the community, heightening tension in the area
Several people, including soldiers, are feared dead following a fresh bandit attack on Kemanji community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State in the early hours of Monday.
Residents said the attackers struck around 3:00 a.m., just days after allegedly issuing a warning to the community, heightening tension in the area.
The armed men reportedly invaded the community under the cover of darkness, firing sporadically and forcing residents to flee for safety.
Security operatives, including Nigerian Army personnel and local vigilantes, were said to have quickly responded and engaged the bandits in a gun battle that lasted about two hours.
A local source said the attackers also threw an explosive device at a military position in the area, causing damage before moving further into the community.
“Our security agents engaged them in a fierce gun duel that lasted till about 5:00 a.m.,” the source said.
He added that casualties were recorded among the security personnel, although the exact number of deaths had not been confirmed at the time of filing this report.
“They killed some soldiers, but the extent of the damage is still uncertain until full assessment is carried out,” the source added.
An eyewitness also claimed that several soldiers were killed during the confrontation, while a member of the local vigilante group sustained gunshot injuries.
Residents described the attack as devastating, saying many villagers have fled the community over fears of further violence.
Join us on our WhatsApp Platform @KOIKIMEDIA NEWS YOUR PAGE
koikimedia Bringing the World 🌎 Closer to Your Doorstep