Bandits kill DPO, 2 other policemen, 4 vigilante members in Niger

 Armed bandits have killed at least seven security operatives, including the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Nasko, Magama local government area of Niger state.

The tragic incident happened around 1pm on Tuesday, March 15.

Security crisis in Niger state remains a huge concern as bandits launched a fresh attack on Tuesday, March 15. Photo credit: The Governor of Niger-State Source: Facebook

The gunmen who attempted to launch an attack on Nasko were engaged by the security operatives, comprising the police, military and local vigilantes.

Niger police command confirms the incident

DSP Wasiu Abiodun, the spokesman of the Niger state police command, has confirmed the incident.

He said the DPO, two other policemen, and four vigilante members lost their lives during the gun battle. 

Our source gave the slain DPO's name as CSP Umar Muhammed Dakin.

The spokesman was quoted as saying:

“On 15/03/22, at about 1300hrs, armed bandits/terrorists invaded Nasko village, Magama LGA of Niger State.

“Police operatives with vigilante members were immediately mobilized by DPO and engaged the bandits in a fierce gun battle in which some of the hoodlums were neutralised and others escaped with gunshot injuries. Unfortunately, during the gun battle, the DPO, two other policemen, and four vigilante members lost their lives.”

The Kotangora Area Commander, had drafted reinforcement with the military personnel to the area to forestall break down of law and order.

The command however condoled with the families of officers and vigilante members who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident.

The police spokesman also reassured members of the public that the command will not be deterred or relent in it’s effort to curb banditry in the state.