Armed bandits stormed Kuchi community in Munya Local Government Area of Niger state and reportedly abducted about 50 people.

It was gathered that the terrorists numbering over 100 invaded the community at about 1:00am on Friday, July 22, went from one house to another, waking up their victims which include women and children before leading them into the bush through cattle roots.

It was further learnt that the bandits alongside their captives are reportedly trapped on their journey at a nearby Dangunu River, which has overflown its banks due to the heavy downpour.

Co-convener, Concerned Shiroro Youths Of Niger State, Sani Abubakar Yusuf Kokki, who confirmed the incident said there is no report of casualties.

“My investigation further revealed that, they (terrorists) stormed the town around 2am while it was raining, instantly launched house to house operation and assembled their victims for onward movement to their enclave,” he said.

“Though, at the moment, there is no report of any casualty but the estimated number of people kidnapped is put at about fifty (50).

“However, the rampaging terrorists alongside their captives are reported to have been trapped without access to proceed with their journey as a result of a nearby Dangunu River that has overflow its banks arising from heavy downpour.

“Reinforcement is immediately needed at the moment in order to fiercely engage them at their exit route where they are currently stranded.

“Mobilize able-bodied vigilantes to the scene for fire for fire encounter with a view to rescuing our kingsmen unhurt!

“The authorities concerned should swing into action and do the needful. May Almighty Allah urgently come to our rescue, Ameen.”

Spokesperson of the State Police Command, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Friday evening, however, stated that only nine persons were abducted.

“On 22/07/2022 at about 0520hrs, armed bandits/terrorists attacked Kuchi village via Sarkin-Pawa, Munya LGA and abducted nine persons,” he stated.

“Meanwhile, Police tactical teams with vigilante members were drafted to the area and five victims were rescued unhurt while the teams are still on the trail of the hoodlums for rescue of the remaining victims.