By Sam ike, Abuja

Panic and grief swept through communities in Niger State after armed bandits abducted scores of residents during a coordinated attack on villages in Borgu Local Government Area on Friday.

The attackers reportedly stormed Kpenya village and surrounding communities before invading a mosque where worshippers had gathered for Juma’at prayers. Eyewitnesses said the gunmen arrived in large numbers, firing sporadically to disperse residents before rounding up dozens of people and whisking them away into nearby forests.

Local sources estimated that between 60 and 80 persons were kidnapped during the assault, although security authorities have yet to confirm the exact number of victims. Several residents were said to have sustained injuries while attempting to escape from the attackers.

The incident has heightened fears among residents of Borgu and neighbouring communities, many of whom have been living under the threat of recurring attacks by armed criminal groups. Community leaders described the latest assault as one of the most devastating in recent months, noting that women, children and elderly persons were among those reportedly taken hostage.

Confirming the attack, the Niger State Police Command said security operatives had been deployed to the affected area. Police authorities disclosed that efforts were ongoing to track the abductors and secure the safe release of the victims. The command also urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid rescue operations.

The military and other security agencies have since intensified patrols and search operations across the affected communities and adjoining forests. Security officials vowed that the perpetrators would be apprehended and brought to justice.

Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed security agencies to launch an immediate and coordinated rescue mission to secure the release of all those abducted. The President also ordered a comprehensive manhunt for the attackers and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to combating insecurity across the country.

The attack has once again drawn attention to the persistent security challenges facing parts of north-central Nigeria, where communities continue to grapple with kidnappings, banditry and other violent crimes. Residents have called for stronger security presence and sustained operations to prevent further attacks and restore confidence among the populace.

As rescue efforts continue, families of the victims remain anxiously hopeful for the safe return of their loved ones, while authorities intensify efforts to bring the situation under control.