21 Killed, 40 Kidnapped in Niger

Up to 21 persons have been killed and 40 kidnapped in a fresh attack on communities in Shiroro Council of Niger State.

Dozens of gunmen on motorcycles reportedly stormed four villages of Kurege, Sabon Gida, Sararai and Rafin Kanya shot and killed some people and kidnapped others.

An indigene of Shiroro, Galadima Salisu, told newsmen yesterday that unless governments at all levels come to the aid of the community, the area could be taken over by bandits.

Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ahmed Matane, confirmed the incident, but denied knowledge of the number of casualties.

Matane said that the state government was doing everything possible within its powers to address the problem of insecurity bedevilling the people in the state.