Four Killed, Five Injured as Suspected Lakurawa Gunmen Attack Kebbi Mosque

Fear gripped residents of Dadinkowa community in Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State on Wednesday evening after gunmen suspected to be members of the Lakurawa group opened fire inside a mosque, killing four people and injuring five others.

The attackers reportedly invaded the mosque during evening prayers, shooting indiscriminately at worshippers before fleeing the scene.

Security sources suggest the assault may have been a retaliatory move following a recent military crackdown in the area. Earlier in the week, troops operating under Operation FANSAN YANMA foiled an attempted ambush near Mayama Hill, where five suspected Lakurawa fighters were said to have been neutralised.

The ambush targeted a military convoy reportedly conveying the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 8 Division during an operational tour of the state.

After the encounter, security operatives recovered weapons, ammunition, cash, motorcycles, and mobile phones from the suspects.

Authorities say a manhunt has been launched for those responsible for the mosque attack, with intensified security patrols aimed at restoring calm and preventing further violence.

The injured victims are currently receiving treatment at nearby health facilities.

The incident underscores rising security concerns in Kebbi’s North-West region. Just last week, suspected Lakurawa members allegedly killed no fewer than 33 residents in multiple attacks across communities in Arewa Local Government Area following a failed cattle rustling attempt.