Suspected Lakurawa terrorists have killed four worshippers and injured five others in an attack on a mosque in Dadinkowa community, Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, the assault on Wednesday evening was believed to be a reprisal for a foiled military ambush earlier in the week. The gunmen reportedly stormed the mosque during prayers, opening fire on congregants.
The attack is thought to be retaliation for an Operation FANSAN YANMA operation in which troops “neutralised” five suspected Lakurawa members near Mayama Hill. The failed ambush had targeted the convoy of Bemgha Koughna, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, during an operational tour in the state.
Security forces recovered weapons and items during the encounter, including one OJC gun, one PKT gun, two AK-47 rifles, four AK-47 magazines, a bandolier of PKT ammunition, several rounds of 12.7mm ammunition, a camel bag containing N840,000, two mobile phones, and five motorcycles.
Authorities confirmed ongoing efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and assured residents of intensified operations to restore security in the area. The injured were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
The incident adds to rising concerns over Lakurawa activities in north-western Nigeria. On February 20, the group killed at least 33 people in a series of attacks on communities in Arewa LGA of Kebbi, reportedly attempting to rustle cattle before being confronted by residents.
