A deadly Kebbi attack has claimed the lives of a police inspector and 11 civilians following a series of assaults on communities in Koko-Besse Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The incidents have renewed concerns about insecurity in northwestern Nigeria, where armed groups continue to threaten rural communities.
The attacks occurred on October 26 and 28 in communities around the Karwa, Kestu and Waiwayi axis of Koko-Besse Local Government Area. The attackers reportedly killed residents, destroyed properties and looted shops during the incidents.
The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the deaths on Thursday, October 29. It identified the suspected attackers as members of the Mamudawa/Lakurawa group.
According to the police, five people died during the first attack on October 26. Another seven people, including a police inspector, lost their lives during the October 28 incidents.
Kebbi Attack Prompts Fresh Security Deployment
The police spokesperson, SP Bashir Usman, confirmed the casualties and said the attackers also destroyed houses and motorcycles.
He explained that the police inspector died during an exchange of gunfire with the armed group. The command did not immediately release the officer’s identity.
Following the attacks, the Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, CP Umar M. Hadejia, ordered additional security deployments to the affected communities.
The police deployed Mobile Force personnel, tactical teams and conventional officers to strengthen security in the area. They are also working with other security agencies to prevent further attacks.
The command said security teams had started clearance, search-and-rescue and confidence-building operations. These efforts aim to restore peace and encourage displaced residents to return to their communities.
Earlier Violence Raises Questions About Security
The latest attacks reportedly followed tensions over allegations of cattle rustling and threats of reprisal violence.
Police accounts linked the escalation to an incident at Samanaji Market on October 22. During the incident, vigilantes identified as Yan Sakai allegedly attacked Fulani traders, leaving three people dead and a police inspector injured.
The subsequent violence increased tension across communities along the Besse-Shanga riverine axis. Some residents reportedly fled their homes over fears of further attacks.
The killings have added to growing concerns about the ability of security agencies to protect rural communities from armed groups and retaliatory violence.
Although the police have promised stronger security measures, residents still face uncertainty as operations continue.
The command has urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information.
The Kebbi attack highlights the continuing security challenges in northwestern Nigeria, where armed violence continues to threaten lives, livelihoods and community stability.
