Gunmen Kill 15 in Coordinated Village Attacks in Northern Nigeria
Amnesty Condemns ‘Horrific’ Violence as Insecurity Deepens
- Gunmen on motorcycles attacked Tashan Maje, Saduro, and Runtuwa villages in Niger State, killing at least 15 people
- Northern Nigeria continues to face violence from militants in the northeast and armed gangs in north-central regions
- Nigerian forces reported “decisive operational successes
At least 15 people were killed on Saturday after gunmen launched coordinated attacks on three villages in Niger State, according to Amnesty International.
The assailants stormed Tashan Maje, Saduro, and Runtuwa villages, arriving on dozens of motorcycles and opening fire indiscriminately while looting shops and homes. Amnesty described the killings as “horrific,” warning that residents are living in constant fear amid worsening insecurity.
Northern Nigeria continues to grapple with a complex security crisis, including militant insurgency in the northeast and widespread kidnappings by armed gangs across north-central regions.
The violence follows a string of deadly incidents, including the killing of 38 people and abductions in Zamfara State last week, highlighting the growing threat posed by criminal gangs and extremist groups.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian military reported “decisive operational successes” within a 24-hour period, saying 20 suspects were arrested and weapons, drugs, and stolen goods were seized. Authorities described the operation as part of an intensified effort to dismantle terrorist networks and criminal syndicates while reclaiming affected territories.
Despite these efforts, communities across the region remain gripped by fear and uncertainty, underscoring the heavy human toll of Nigeria’s intertwined security, religious, and criminal challenges.
