Police operatives in Kebbi State successfully repelled a significant attack by suspected Lakurawa militants, also identified as a criminal network or terrorists, along the Maje border road in the Bagudo Local Government Area of the state. The incident, which occurred late on Friday night around 9:45 PM, saw armed men advance toward police positions under the cover of darkness, reportedly pushing cattle ahead of them in an apparent attempt to disguise their movement and approach.

Operatives of the Police Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), who were already on high alert in the area, swiftly engaged the assailants in a fierce gunfight. The superior firepower and commendable professionalism displayed by the officers forced the attackers to retreat into the surrounding bush, effectively ending the incursion. The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed that the attack resulted in no loss of life and no injuries were recorded, although some temporary security structures sustained damage during the exchange of gunfire.

The encounter was officially confirmed by the Kebbi State Police Commissioner, Umar Mohammed Hadeija, and further detailed by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Bashir Usman, in a statement issued on Saturday in Birnin Kebbi. Commissioner Hadeija praised his men, stating that “Our operatives were vigilant and professionally responded to the attack. The bandits were repelled and forced to flee.” He reiterated that despite some damage to temporary security structures, no lives were lost and no injuries were sustained by anyone.

In the aftermath of the foiled attack, additional security reinforcements have been promptly deployed to the border corridor. This measure aims to prevent any further incursions and ensure the sustained security and stability of the area. The PPRO, Bashir Usman, confirmed that security along the border axis has been reinforced and that the area is now calm and under control.

Furthermore, in light of the tactics employed by the attackers, Commissioner Hadeija issued a stern warning to local herders and livestock owners. He urged them to “desist from night grazing or movement of cattle in a manner that creates suspicion.” Both the Commissioner and the PPRO emphasized that security agencies would take firm and lawful action against any suspicious movement or unlawful activity linked to such practices, ensuring that criminals cannot exploit legitimate activities for illicit purposes.