Officials from Kebbi State have detailed a tragic incident where suspected Lakurawa terrorists ambushed a security team, resulting in the deaths of nine military personnel, one police officer, and a civilian on Tuesday in the Shanga Local Government Area.
The reported attack occurred while the security officers were supposedly engaged in a mission aimed at monitoring and averting insurgent activities in the region.
Governor Nasir Idris paid a visit to the injured survivors at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Birnin Kebbi, where the remains of the deceased soldiers were also taken.
Yahaya Sarki, the governor's spokesperson, stated that the deployment of the security team followed a distress call from local residents warning of a potential attack on their community.
"The military personnel had mobilised in response to intelligence indicating that bandits were planning to attack a community in the area, but were unfortunately lured into a deadly ambush laid by the criminals," Sarki explained.
Mr. Sarki further disclosed that the governor inspected the damaged military vehicle and termed the occurrence a profoundly saddening and regrettable event for the state.
He remarked, "The Governor indicated that this unfortunate incident highlights the daily dangers faced by security operatives in the line of duty, emphasizing his government’s commitment to providing robust support to security agencies operating in Kebbi State."
Additionally, the governor announced plans to travel to Abuja to express the condolences of the Kebbi State Government to the Chief of Army Staff regarding the fatalities.
“Governor Idris assured that he would replace the damaged vehicle and encouraged the military and other security forces to remain steadfast and dedicated to their mandate of safeguarding lives and property,” the statement noted.
During the governor's visit to Giron Masa village, where the ambush took place, Emir of Yauri, Zayyanu Abdullahi, conveyed concerns about the ongoing security issues in the area.
The traditional leader called for enhanced intelligence gathering, better reconnaissance efforts, and the incorporation of advanced technologies, including drones, to mitigate casualties and enhance security operations.
He appreciated the governor for his swift response and concern for the situation, offering prayers for enduring peace and safety for both the state and the nation at large.
Governor Idris also offered prayers for the souls of the departed security personnel and for a rapid recovery for the wounded.
The Lakurawa group, an extremist faction believed to have links with Sahelian insurgents from Mali and Niger, has reportedly escalated its activities in Kebbi, Northwest Nigeria.
This recent ambush follows a similar event where Major General Bemgha Koughna, the General Officer Commanding the 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma, narrowly escaped an attack by suspected terrorists in the region.
The general had led a specialized operation aimed at eliminating bandits from their established areas in Northwest Nigeria.
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to comment.
Be the first to comment on this article!