Terrorists launched a deadly attack on Natsini, a quiet community in Argungu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, on Thursday night, killing two police officers and rustling nearly 200 cattle.
According to information gathered, the assailants, armed with sophisticated weapons, invaded the community under the cover of darkness and headed directly to a compound where livestock was being housed. Residents, upon noticing the intruders, fled for safety.
Reports indicate that no civilian lives were lost, and there were no cases of abduction during the attack. The primary target appeared to be the cattle, which belong to a businessman based in Argungu town, identified as Lawali Black.
The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the tragic loss of two of its officers during the confrontation. The officers reportedly engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange of gunfire but were overpowered.
Further reports suggest that some of the rustled cattle found their way back to the community on Friday morning. Approximately 20 cattle returned to Natsini on their own, while about 20 others were left behind by the attackers on the night of the raid.
This latest incident adds to a series of attacks that have plagued Argungu Local Government Area in recent months. Less than two months ago, terrorists attacked the community of Mera, also in Argungu, where they killed 15 residents who attempted to prevent the rustling of their cattle.
The frequency of these attacks has raised concerns about the safety of rural communities in the region, with many residents calling for stronger security measures to address the worsening insecurity.
Authorities are yet to provide further details about the attackers or steps being taken to recover the remaining rustled cattle. However, the situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts between state and federal security agencies to curb the rising threat of terrorism and cattle rustling in Kebbi State and beyond.
As the community mourns the loss of the two brave police officers, the attack has once again highlighted the vulnerability of rural communities to organized criminal activities.
