Seven Kidnapped, 18 Killed As Gunmen Attack Mosque In Niger

Gunmen suspected to be bandits have kidnapped seven and killed eighteen worshippers during an invasion of a mosque in Mazukaka village, Niger State.

Ezenwoko’s Blog reports that the gunmen invaded the worship centre located in Mashegu Local Government Area of the state in the early hours of Monday when the worshippers were observing early morning prayers.

According to a resident of the area, the attackers stormed the community on motorcycles and went straight to the mosque, before shooting the worshippers at closed range.

Speaking to reporters, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Kuryas, confirmed the incident and attributed the attack to communal conflict.

The police commissioner added that the gunmen destroyed a property belonging to one Abubakar Maigandus in the village.

Kuryas said one of the attackers was shot dead by security agencies, adding that the incident was described as a reprisal attack following a long-term feud involving the community.

The police commissioner also said security operatives have been deployed to the area to ensure the arrest of the gunmen and other persons disturbing the peace of the community.

He urged residents of the community to assist the security agencies with useful information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.

“We are battle-ready to confront any form of criminal elements as long as good residents will volunteer credible information on the movement of dubious characters in their midst,” he added.