At least 61 bodies of both security operatives and civilians killed in recent bandit attacks on Bagna, Erena, and other surrounding communities in Erena Ward, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State have been recovered from nearby bushes.
Residents told reporters that the victims included security operatives, vigilantes, and civilians, although police authorities reportedly confirmed only three vigilantes were killed.
The deceased include Mr. Manga, a vigilante commander, who was said to have initially survived a gun battle with the attackers but later died from severe gunshot injuries.
While civilians have been buried within Erena, the bodies of security personnel have been taken to the Minna General Hospital mortuary.
Community members praised the response of security operatives during the attacks but criticised authorities for allegedly failing to act on prior intelligence warnings.
In a related development, residents of nearby Bassa in Shiroro LGA reportedly fled their homes on Thursday following rumours of a planned bandit invasion. Videos circulating online showed women and children evacuating the area using canoes to reach safer locations.
Displaced residents are currently taking refuge at Zumba Central Primary School and other locations within the local government area.
Some fleeing farmers reported hearing air operations in surrounding areas, which they said prompted security personnel to withdraw from certain locations to avoid accidental casualties.
Others said residents were advised to leave their communities after reports that armed groups were gathering nearby.
The attacks have heightened tension across Shiroro LGA, with many communities remaining on alert amid fears of further violence.
