The Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed that its operatives successfully repelled an attack by armed bandits suspected to be members of the Lakurawa criminal network along the Maje border road.
The incident, which happened at night, involved suspected criminals who reportedly attempted to enter the area by disguising their movement with a herd of cattle. According to the police, the attackers tried to use the animals to hide their approach and avoid detection by security forces stationed along the border.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, the Police Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) quickly responded to the threat after noticing suspicious movement in the area.
“The attackers moved a herd of cattle at night, using it to conceal their approach. Our well-prepared CTU operatives engaged them and forced them to withdraw,” the statement said.
The operatives reportedly engaged the bandits in a gun duel. After an exchange of gunfire, the attackers retreated and fled the scene. The police confirmed that although some temporary security structures were damaged during the confrontation, no lives were lost and no injuries were recorded among security personnel or civilians.
The Command added that security presence along the Maje border has been strengthened since the attack. According to the police, the area is now calm and fully under control, with additional patrols and monitoring in place to prevent further incidents.
Border communities in Kebbi State have faced security challenges in recent years due to their location near international boundaries and forest areas that criminals sometimes use as hideouts. Armed bandits have been known to carry out cattle rustling, kidnapping, and attacks on villages in parts of the North-West.
The Lakurawa group, which has been linked to criminal activities in some border communities, is suspected of operating across difficult terrains and taking advantage of night movement to avoid security checkpoints. Security experts say that the use of cattle to disguise movement is a tactic aimed at blending in with regular herders and avoiding suspicion.
Kebbi State shares borders with Niger Republic and other Nigerian states. Because of this, security agencies often maintain a strong presence along border roads to monitor movement and prevent cross-border crimes. The Maje border road is one of the routes that security forces keep under watch.
The Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, CP Umar Mohammed Hadeija, psc, MNIM, warned residents, especially herders and livestock owners, to avoid moving cattle at night in ways that could create confusion or be exploited by criminals.
He said that while legitimate herders have the right to carry out their business, security agencies would not tolerate any suspicious activity that threatens public safety.
“Security agencies will take firm and lawful action against any unlawful activity or suspicious movement associated with night grazing,” the Commissioner warned.
Night grazing and the movement of cattle after dark have been sensitive issues in many parts of northern Nigeria. In some cases, criminals have taken advantage of such movements to hide weapons or to approach communities unnoticed. As a result, security agencies often advise herders to limit movement to daytime hours.
Residents of border communities have welcomed the quick response by the police, noting that timely action helps to prevent attacks from escalating. In recent years, communities in parts of the North-West have experienced attacks by armed groups, leading to loss of lives, displacement of families, and destruction of property.
The Federal Government and state governments have increased efforts to tackle insecurity in the region. Measures have included the deployment of special police units, military operations, and collaboration with local vigilante groups. The Police Counter Terrorism Unit is one of the specialized units set up to respond swiftly to threats involving armed groups.
The Kebbi State Police Command encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or security formation. The Command said that timely information from residents can help prevent crimes and protect lives.
The latest incident highlights the ongoing security challenges facing some border areas in Nigeria. However, the successful response by the police in this case has been seen as a positive sign that security forces are alert and prepared.
As normal activities resume along the Maje border road, authorities say they will continue to monitor the area closely. The police have assured residents that they are committed to protecting lives and property and will not allow criminal elements to take control of any part of the state.
