Suspected bandits in their numbers have surrounded Rijau town and neighbouring communities in Rijau Local Council of Niger State in an attempt to attack the communities and mop up rustled cattle. The development has led to tension in the entire area.

A reliable source from the area revealed that the armed bandits have invaded the communities between Mariga and Rijau local government areas, riding on no fewer than 200 motorcycles, with three on each of the vehicles.

The source stated that the bandits were armed with AK-47 and other dangerous weapons, moving from one community to another to gather cows. The source alleged that the bandits came in from Zamfara State to carry out their criminal activities in the state.

Reports further indicated that there are no security operatives in the entire area except a few vigilantes who are handicapped. At the same time, the people lamented that the bandits, operating in intimidating numbers, can do so freely due to a lack of security presence in the affected communities.

The bandits are allegedly targeting Kontagora to carry out their nefarious activities in the town.

The source, however, appealed to Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, the Niger State Police Command, the Nigerian military, and other security agencies to intervene quickly and safeguard the area from potential attacks.

At the time of filing this report, no official statement has been made by the state government or other security agencies, including the Niger State Police Command, concerning the development.