Suspected members of the Lakurawa terror group have killed three workers of Airtel Communication Nigeria Ltd and a local resident in Gumki village, Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The victims were reportedly attacked while installing surveillance equipment in the area.
The tragic incident occurred on January 10, 2025, at around 8:47 PM when gunmen stormed the construction site near the Nigeria-Niger Republic border. The victims were working on a project for the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) when the attackers struck.
Confirming the attack, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Kebbi State, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, said in a statement:
“Suspected Lakurawa bandits invaded a construction site at Gumki village, Arewa LGA, where staff of Airtel Communication Nigeria Ltd were installing a surveillance mask for the Nigeria Immigration Service. As a result, four people lost their lives—one indigene and three staff of the Airtel company.”
The Commissioner of Police, Kebbi State Command, CP Bello M. Sani, alongside the Comptroller of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kebbi State Command, CIS Muhammad Bashir Lawali, visited the scene of the attack. The victims’ remains were transported to Sir Yahaya Memorial Hospital in Birnin Kebbi.
Police Response and Community Appeal
The Kebbi State Police Command has deployed tactical teams to the area, with CP Bello Sani instructing them to take decisive action against the perpetrators. He also held discussions with community leaders, urging them to provide timely and relevant information to security agencies to aid in the fight against banditry.
The attack highlights the ongoing security challenges in border communities, where terrorist groups exploit vulnerabilities to carry out violent acts. As authorities intensify efforts to address these threats, residents are left mourning the loss of innocent lives and grappling with fear and uncertainty.
