Unidentified hoodlums have attacked residents of M.I. Wushishi housing estate in Minna, the Niger State capital, destroying property worth millions of naira.

The Guardian learnt that the number of homes broken into is yet to be ascertained, while six cars were destroyed. The criminals reportedly entered the area in daylight when most men were at work, leaving only women and children at home.

The Guardian also understands that illegal gold miners in the area had previously threatened residents, warning them to watch out for their return. According to residents, the illegal gold miners operating in the low-cost housing area were asked to leave their homes.

Some residents who spoke to reporters said several requests had been made to the state commissioner of police for assistance but that nothing concrete was done.

The residents appealed to the Niger State government for help, asking them to put the M.I. Wushishi housing estate in the spotlight as the activities of the miners become increasingly problematic.

When contacted, state Police Command spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed that police received a distress call reporting suspected illegal miners/thugs fighting and attacking houses at the M.I. Wushishi housing estate.

According to him, police patrol teams led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Maitumbi, moved to the scene and dispatched the miscreants. Abiodun said an unidentified gang member was killed during the raid and has been taken to the general hospital morgue. He added that normalcy has been restored, and an investigation is ongoing to arrest the other assailants.