Lakurawa Terrorists Kill Five Worshippers in Kebbi Mosque Attack

Lakurawa Terrorists Kill Five Worshippers in Kebbi Mosque Attack

Suspected Lakurawa terrorists have killed five worshippers and injured three others in an attack on a mosque in Kebbi State, in what security sources described as a reprisal following a failed ambush on a senior army officer.

The gunmen stormed a mosque in Dadinkowa community, Maiyama Local Government Area, on Wednesday evening while residents were observing prayers. Witnesses said the attackers opened fire on the congregation, causing panic as people scrambled for safety.

The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the incident on Thursday. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, said the attack was carried out in retaliation for an earlier confrontation between the terrorists and troops of the Nigerian Army.

According to him, the incident followed a failed ambush on the convoy of the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, Bemgha Koughna. The senior officer, who also serves as Commander, Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, had been on his way to visit frontline troops on February 24 when his convoy came under heavy gunfire near Mayama Hill.

Usman said troops responded with superior firepower and engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange. “Five of the terrorists were neutralised, thereby foiling the ambush,” he said.

He explained that Wednesday’s mosque attack was believed to be a reprisal by members of the Lakurawa group after their failed attempt to attack the military convoy.

The police spokesman confirmed that five worshippers died from gunshot wounds sustained during the mosque assault, while three others suffered varying degrees of injuries. The injured victims were evacuated to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

Security agencies have intensified patrols in the area, while investigations are ongoing to track down those responsible for the attack.