Suspected Mamudawa/Lakurawa terrorists have reportedly killed a police inspector and 11 civilians in attacks on Waiwayi and Kystu villages in Koko/Besse Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the deaths, saying the inspector was killed during an exchange of gunfire with the attackers. The officer’s identity has not been disclosed as investigations continue, police spokesperson SP Bashir Usman said. <Cite refs={["turn645854search0","turn645854search1"]}/>
Reports indicate that the attackers also set houses ablaze and looted food items from shops in the affected communities. The attacks forced residents to flee their homes in search of safety.
Police said security operatives had cordoned off the affected areas and launched a manhunt for those responsible. The Commissioner of Police, Umar M. Hadejia, also ordered additional security deployments and operations aimed at preventing further attacks and restoring calm. <Cite refs={["turn645854search0","turn645854search1"]}/>
The killings come amid a wider wave of violence in the Koko-Besse area. Police have linked the recent unrest to an earlier confrontation involving Fulani traders and local vigilantes at Samanaji Market on October 22, followed by reprisal attacks in neighbouring communities.
The police account puts the death toll from attacks on October 26 and 28 at seven, in addition to five people reportedly killed on October 26 as part of the wider series of incidents. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information while investigations continue. <Cite refs={["turn645854search1","turn645854search2"]}/>