Armed men stormed a village in Nigeria's Sokoto state on Saturday night, killing at least 12 people and abducting women and children. The attack occurred in the village of Lajinge, where residents reported the gunmen entered around 11 p.m. and continued their assault until 3 a.m. on Sunday.
Night Attack Leaves Trail of Death and Despair
The village of Lajinge, located in Nigeria's northwestern Sokoto state, was the target of a brutal attack by heavily armed men. The assailants set fire to a house, killing six members of a family, according to a resident who spoke to Reuters.
The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents in the region, where bandits have been known to raid villages, kidnap residents for ransom, and steal livestock. "They killed at least 12 people, injured four others, abducted women and children after rustling many livestock," resident Auwal Hassan told Reuters by phone.
Police Investigation Underway
Sokoto police force spokesperson Ahmed Rufai confirmed that an investigation into the attack is ongoing. "Police were investigating and would provide updates later," he said in a statement. The police have not yet released any further information on the attackers or their motives.
Regional Violence on the Rise
The attack in Lajinge comes just a week after bandits killed at least 24 farmers in neighbouring Zamfara state. The violence in the region has been ongoing for months, with frequent attacks by bandits leaving residents living in fear.
Residents Call for Increased Security
The attack in Lajinge has left residents in shock and demanding increased security measures. "We need the government to do more to protect us from these attacks," said a local resident, who wished to remain anonymous. The resident expressed concern that the lack of action from the authorities was emboldening the attackers.
What Happens Next?
The attack in Lajinge is a stark reminder of the ongoing violence in Nigeria's northwestern states. As the police investigation continues, residents are left wondering when the attacks will stop and when they will be able to live without fear of violence.
Source: Joy Online
