Terrorists kill six in Niger community, two missing

Niger map

The Niger State Police Command has confirmed that six villagers were killed by suspected bandits in Wawa community, Borgu Local Government Area, and said it is intensifying efforts to locate two others who remain missing.

The attack occurred on Thursday when a father, identified as Deshi, and his son went to visit workers on their farm. The son narrowly escaped and alerted villagers, prompting local vigilante groups to mobilise in search of Deshi and the farmers.

Mohammed Musa, a community member, told PUNCH Online that the crisis began when bandits attacked a youth on his way to the farm.

“On hearing, his friends and family members went to get the cops, but they were also attacked. Six people lost their lives. The bodies were recovered today by the security operatives,” he said.

Security operatives later recovered the six bodies, while Deshi and one other person remain missing.

Confirming the incident to our correspondent on Saturday, Police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun stated, “On January 22, 2026, at about 12 pm, the report indicated that one Deshi and his son, both of Wawa via New-Bussa, were attacked by bandits while on their way to visit workers on their farm at Damala village beside Wawa National Park forest.

“The son escaped and alerted relatives. On 23/1/26, security operatives recovered six bodies, while Deshi and one other remain missing. Efforts are being intensified to locate other missing persons.” Punch