Suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group have carried out a deadly assault on a mosque in Dadinkowa community, Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State, killing six worshippers and injuring three others in what authorities describe as a reprisal attack.
The gunmen reportedly stormed the mosque on Wednesday evening while congregants were observing prayers, opening fire indiscriminately and causing panic within the community.
Confirming the incident, the Kebbi State Police Public Relations Officer, Bashir Usman, said the attack was believed to be retaliation for a failed ambush on troops of the Nigerian Army.
According to Usman, the sequence of events began on February 24 when the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, and Commander, Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Bemgha Koughna, came under attack while travelling to visit frontline troops deployed in the state.
“The GOC’s convoy, while navigating forested terrain near Mayama Hill, came under heavy gunfire from armed terrorists believed to be members of the Lakurawa group,” Usman stated. “Troops responded with superior firepower, engaged the attackers in a fierce gun duel and neutralised five of them, thereby foiling the ambush.”
Security officials believe Wednesday’s mosque attack was carried out in retaliation for that failed operation.
Police said five worshippers initially died from gunshot wounds sustained during the assault, while three others suffered varying degrees of injuries and were evacuated to nearby medical facilities for treatment. However, during funeral prayers held afterward, six victims were presented for burial.
Local sources confirmed that six people ultimately lost their lives in the attack and were laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites.
Authorities say security has been reinforced in the area as investigations continue and efforts are intensified to prevent further violence.
About the Author
