Security Forces Move Into Niger Community to Rescue Abducted Residents
Security Forces Move Into Niger Community to Rescue Abducted Residents
Security forces have intensified operations in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State following the mass abduction of residents by suspected terrorists during attacks on communities last Friday.
The deployment of military personnel, police officers and operatives of the Department of State Services followed a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for security agencies to secure the affected communities and work towards the safe recovery of the abducted residents.
The number of people in captivity remains disputed. While the Niger State Police Command estimated that between 155 and 164 people were abducted, a video released by the terrorists claimed that more than 500 people were being held.
A community leader in neighbouring Babanna, Idris Shiyaki, confirmed that security personnel had arrived in the area, describing the situation as relatively calmer following the deployment. He said the military had begun expanding its presence in the affected communities while also assisting displaced residents who fled their homes following the attacks.
Security personnel are also reportedly helping with the burial of victims whose bodies were recovered from the affected communities and using military vehicles to transport displaced residents to Babanna, which has become a major refuge for survivors.
The attacks, which occurred on August 21 during Friday Islamic prayers, reportedly affected several communities, including Kpenya and Gidan-Zana in Borgu Local Government Area. Suspected members of the Lakurawa and Boko Haram groups have been linked to the attacks.
A senior security official confirmed that additional personnel had been deployed to the area, explaining that the operation would be guided by intelligence gathering and careful planning to avoid putting the abducted victims at greater risk.
The Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, also confirmed that efforts to rescue the victims had commenced. According to him, security agencies are prioritising the safe recovery of the abducted residents, noting that rushing the operation without adequate preparation could endanger both the victims and security personnel. The police spokesman said at least five communities were affected by the attacks, with residents displaced and properties destroyed.
The latest incident has further heightened concerns over the growing pattern of mass abductions in Niger State. The state has recorded several major kidnapping incidents in recent months, including the abduction of more than 300 students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in November 2025.
Security authorities have also urged residents of vulnerable communities in the Borgu axis to temporarily relocate to safer areas to allow security forces to conduct clearance operations against the armed groups.
However, the police acknowledged the difficulty residents face in leaving their ancestral communities, particularly because many depend on farming for their livelihoods. Abiodun stressed that protecting lives must take precedence, saying residents would be encouraged to return only after security agencies have established that the affected communities are safe.
