Bandits Invade Niger Border Community, Abduct Immigration Officer, Seize Rifles In Broad Daylight Attack

Minna, Niger State– Suspected terrorists believed to be armed bandits riding on motorcycles from the Republic of Benin axis have attacked immigration officers at Baliavillage in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, abducting one officer and carting away two AK-47 rifles.

The attack, which underscores growing insecurity along Nigeria’s porous borders, reportedly occurred on Tuesday morning at about 10:30 a.m.

Afrika Eyes gathered that the assailants, who were heading towards Babana Market, stormed an immigration checkpoint in the area and intercepted officers on duty.

During the attack, the heavily armed bandits overpowered the officers, disarmed them, and seized two AK-47 rifles, each loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition.

One of the officers, identified as Umar Yusuf, was abducted and taken to an unknown destination by the attackers.

His colleague, Unisa Shehu, narrowly escaped but was left without his service weapon.

A security expert, Zagazola Makama, who confirmed the incident, quoted sources as saying the attackers operated unchallenged, raising fresh concerns over the vulnerability of security personnel stationed in remote border communities.

Following the attack, security forces, alongside local vigilantes and hunters, were swiftly mobilized to the area.

Search-and-rescue operations are currently underway to secure the release of the abducted officer and recover the stolen firearms.