Security forces have moved into Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria, as authorities intensify efforts to rescue residents reportedly abducted during attacks on several communities.
The operation involves the military, police and Department of State Services (DSS), following an order from Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for security agencies to coordinate efforts to locate and safely rescue those taken during the attacks.
The incident occurred in several communities in the Borgu area, including Dekara, Gidan Zana, Sabon Gida and other surrounding settlements. Reports indicate that armed attackers invaded the communities and abducted a large number of residents.
The exact number of people missing remains unclear, with different figures emerging from authorities, residents and the attackers. Police sources have put the number of victims at between 155 and 164, while the attackers reportedly claimed in a video that they were holding more than 500 people. Authorities have cautioned against relying on unverified figures while efforts continue to establish the actual number of victims.
A community leader in neighbouring Babanna confirmed the arrival of security personnel in the area. The community has reportedly become a refuge for residents who fled their homes following the attacks.
Military vehicles have also reportedly been used to transport some displaced residents who sought safety in neighbouring communities.
Security officials have stressed that the rescue operation must be carefully planned to avoid putting the lives of the abducted victims at further risk. Authorities say intelligence gathering and assessment of the situation on the ground are necessary before security personnel can safely move against the perpetrators.
Niger State Police Public Relations Officer Wasiu Abiodun confirmed that the rescue operation had commenced. He said the priority was to secure the safe return of the victims while ensuring that security personnel do not take actions that could endanger those being held.
The attacks have also reportedly resulted in deaths, injuries, displacement and damage to property, leaving several affected communities facing significant insecurity.
The security challenges are further complicated by the terrain in the affected area. Previous reports indicated that difficult roads and infrastructure problems, including a collapsed bridge, have hampered security operations and movement between communities.
President Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s security chiefs to provide regular updates on the rescue efforts until the abducted residents are accounted for. He has also condemned the attacks and assured affected communities that the government would deploy the necessary resources to address the situation.
The mass abduction has renewed concerns about insecurity in parts of northern and central Nigeria, where armed groups have increasingly targeted communities and other vulnerable locations.
For residents who fled their homes, the immediate priority remains safety and the eventual return of those still missing. Authorities are expected to continue intelligence-led operations in the area as efforts to locate and rescue the victims progress.
Source: Thepressradio.com
