The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed that 33 people were killed in an attack on Bui District in Arewa Local Government Area, following a violent confrontation sparked by a cattle-rustling incident.
In a statement, the Command’s spokesperson, Bashir Usman, said security forces had intensified operations in the affected communities.
“In response, the Command, in collaboration with the military and other security agencies, has deployed additional personnel and operational assets to the area. Sustained area domination patrols are currently underway to restore and maintain stability,” the statement read.
The police expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families and the wider Arewa community.
Preliminary investigations indicate that suspected Lakurawa militants invaded Bui District to rustle cattle, reportedly crossing into the area from Gudu Local Government Area of neighbouring Sokoto State.
According to the police, residents of Mamunu, Awasaka, Tungan Tsoho, Makangara, Kanzo, Gorun Naidal and Dan Mai Ago mobilised in response to the intrusion, leading to a deadly clash with the heavily armed attackers.
The Command cautioned that confrontations involving well-armed criminal elements require coordinated security intervention, urging residents to report suspicious movements through established channels rather than engage directly.
Local and security sources said the assailants stormed several villages in the remote border district, opening fire on residents in what survivors described as coordinated and indiscriminate attacks.
The violence triggered widespread panic, forcing many villagers to flee as gunmen reportedly invaded homes and shot at civilians.
Security operatives have since been deployed to secure the affected communities, support survivors and block potential escape routes. Tracking and manhunt operations are ongoing.
