Kebbi Police Confirm Eight Dead in Coordinated Attacks on Shanga Communities, Launch Manhunt for Gunmen
The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed that no fewer than eight persons lost their lives following coordinated attacks by suspected gunmen on Kaiwa, Gelawu and Gebbe villages in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The violent incidents, which reportedly occurred without prior warning, have thrown the affected communities into mourning and triggered widespread displacement as residents fled in fear of further assaults.
According to the police, the attackers struck the three villages almost simultaneously, creating panic and confusion among residents who had little time to respond or seek protection. Many villagers reportedly escaped into surrounding bushes and neighbouring communities, abandoning their homes and belongings in a desperate bid to save their lives.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson of the Kebbi State Police Command, Superintendent of Police Bashir Usman, said that seven victims died on the spot during the attacks, while an eighth person later succumbed to injuries sustained and died while receiving medical treatment. He added that one other victim is currently undergoing treatment and responding positively to medical care.
SP Usman explained that following the attacks, security agencies swiftly activated coordinated response measures across the affected areas. He said the police, working alongside other security operatives, have intensified patrols and surveillance in and around Shanga Local Government Area to prevent further attacks and restore calm.
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“Security agencies have sustained coordinated operations within the affected areas, while intensified patrols and surveillance are ongoing to forestall further breaches,” Usman stated. He noted, however, that certain operational details could not be disclosed at this time, as investigations and security operations are still ongoing.
Residents of Kaiwa, Gelawu and Gebbe villages described the attacks as devastating and unprecedented, saying their communities had not witnessed such levels of violence in many years. Survivors recounted scenes of terror as gunshots rang out, forcing families to flee in different directions in the dark.
“The entire area is in shock. People are afraid to return home because nobody knows if the attackers will come back,” one resident said, adding that many displaced villagers are currently taking refuge with relatives or in neighbouring settlements.
In the aftermath of the attacks, additional security personnel have been deployed to the affected communities to maintain law and order and reassure residents. The presence of security operatives, however, has done little to calm fears, as many villagers insist that long-term measures are needed to prevent a recurrence.
Community members and local leaders have appealed to the Kebbi State Government to urgently strengthen security architecture in Shanga Local Government Area and other vulnerable parts of the state. They called for increased intelligence gathering, improved response times, and sustained security presence in rural communities that are often exposed to attacks due to their remote locations.
The attacks in Shanga add to growing concerns over rural insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, where communities continue to face threats from armed groups. Analysts note that such coordinated assaults often point to gaps in local intelligence and early warning systems, leaving communities exposed until after violence has already occurred.
While the police have assured residents that those responsible will be apprehended and brought to justice, many locals remain sceptical, citing previous incidents where attackers were never identified or prosecuted. As investigations continue, affected families are left to bury their dead, care for the injured, and grapple with the trauma of sudden violence.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and provide any useful information that could assist in tracking down the perpetrators. Meanwhile, humanitarian concerns are mounting as displaced residents seek shelter, food, and reassurance that it is safe to return home.