Lakurawa, the new armed group was reportedly to have rustled over 100 cows in Mera and killed 15 people in the process in Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Alhaji Bashir Isah Mera (Yariman Mera), while confirming the attack, said the group invaded the town on Friday when people were preparing for Jumma’at prayer.
“There was exchange of fire between the people of the town and the bandits which led to the killing of 15 people and two of the lakurawas were also killed.
“People of the town mobilized in their hundreds and pursued them to the bush in a bid to recover the cows,” he said.
He added that the Lukarawas are hiding in the Sokoto bush from where they coordinate their attacks.
“Initially they didn’t kill, they only confiscated cows and asked owners to pay ‘Zakat’. That has been happening for almost two months. This is their first attack in which they killed 15 people in our town,” Mera said.
Mera said Governor Nasir Idris had phoned twice expressing sadness over the killings and ordered deployment of soldiers to the community to contain the situation.
“Commanding officer of Dukku barracks, DSS boss, Commissioner of Police and combined security forces have been mobilized to restore normalcy to Mera town and its environs,” he said.
Also the state’s Deputy Governor, Senator Abubakar Umar Tafida and Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Mera, have visited Mera town to sympathize with families of the deceased.
Meanwhile, the Kebbi State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, has condemned the recent bandit attack on Mera community.
Usman Suru, state chairman of the party extended condolences on behalf of the Working Committee, Party Elders, and the State Working Committee to the State Government, Argungu Emirate Council, and Augie Local Government Council, describing the incident as shocking and unfortunate.
The party suggested the establishment and equipping of Free Trade Zones, International Border Markets, and reviving industries at Bulasa Industrial Layout, emphasizing the need for meaningful and effective local investment.
The PDP advised the state government to focus on initiatives that would foster long-term economic growth, stability and employment opportunities for the people of Kebbi.
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