February 26, (THEWILL) — At least six worshippers were killed and three others injured when suspected Lakurawa terrorists attacked a mosque in Dadinkowa community, Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State, in what authorities described as a reprisal assault.
Local sources said the gunmen stormed the mosque on Wednesday evening and opened fire on worshippers observing prayers.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Kebbi State, Bashir Usman, said the assault followed a failed ambush on troops of the Nigerian Army.
“The attack was a reprisal by suspected Lakurawa terrorist elements, following a failed ambush on troops attached to the 8 Division”, Usman stated.
According to the police, the chain of events began on February 24, when the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, and Commander, Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgha Koughna, came under attack while visiting frontline troops deployed in the state.
“The GOC’s convoy, navigating forested terrain near Maiyama Hill, came under heavy gunfire from armed terrorists believed to be members of the Lakurawa group. Troops responded with superior firepower, engaged the attackers in a fierce gun duel, and neutralised five of them, foiling the ambush”, Usman added.
Following the mosque attack, five worshippers reportedly died from gunshot wounds, while three others sustained injuries and were evacuated to nearby medical facilities for treatment. However, local sources confirmed that six victims were laid to rest during funeral prayers, in accordance with Islamic rites.
The tragic incident has heightened concerns over security in parts of Kebbi State, particularly in rural communities vulnerable to reprisals by armed groups. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as security agencies step up patrols to prevent further attacks.
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