Bandits Return After Collecting ₦11 Million Levy, Launch Fresh Attack on Niger Community
Residents of Fanga town in Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State have recounted how armed bandits invaded their community in broad daylight, killing one person, injuring several others, abducting four residents and looting shops despite receiving millions of naira in levies from the community.
According to residents, the attackers stormed the town, firing indiscriminately as people fled for safety. During the assault, they broke into shops, stole goods and valuables, shot multiple residents, including a minor, and kidnapped four people before escaping.
One elderly resident was killed during the attack, while several others sustained gunshot injuries.
Speaking in an interview with Gaskiya Hausa monitored by SaharaReporters, an eyewitness said villagers attempted to pursue the attackers but were unaware that another group of bandits had laid an ambush outside the community.
“Our people chased after them without knowing another group was waiting outside the village. Since we had no weapons, they opened fire on us,” the resident said.
He added that two young men were critically injured, while another elderly man was killed.
The witness confirmed that four people were abducted, including two visitors and two members of the community.
Residents said this was the third attack on Fanga, noting that the bandits operate from nearby settlements where they maintain several hideouts.
The eyewitness also revealed that the community had previously paid millions of naira demanded by the bandits in exchange for peace.
According to him, the first demand was ₦2 million, which the community paid. The following year, the bandits returned and demanded ₦9 million, which was also paid.
Despite paying a total of ₦11 million, the attacks continued.
“Even after paying, we still have no peace,” he lamented.
Residents accused the government of abandoning the area, saying repeated reports to authorities have produced no meaningful action.
“They always tell us they will act, but nothing changes,” the witness said.
He explained that complaints have consistently been channelled through local government officials because residents have no direct access to Governor Umar Mohammed Bago or President Bola Tinubu.
The community is now appealing for the permanent deployment of security personnel rather than temporary military operations after attacks occur.
“We want security forces stationed here at all times, not after people have already been killed,” the resident said.
He warned that the insecurity has spread across the entire Gana district, leaving residents unable to sleep peacefully for fear of further attacks.
