Just days after the mass abduction of over 300 students from St. Mary Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, bandits have struck again, this time targeting farmers.
Reports indicate that 20 farmers, including four pregnant women and several children, were kidnapped while harvesting rice in Unguwan-Kawo, Erena Ward of Shiroro Local Government Area on Wednesday, November 26. The attack occurred around 4 p.m., approximately 500 metres from Erena town, which houses a military camp.
A resident, who requested anonymity, confirmed that his nephew was among those abducted.
The Niger State Police Command spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said authorities are verifying the report.
This incident follows the abduction of hundreds of pupils, students, and staff from St. Mary Secondary and Primary School in Papiri, Agwara LGA. During that attack, gunmen reportedly stormed the school in large numbers, forcing many into vehicles and motorcycles while causing panic among teachers and students.
The school announced that at least 50 of the kidnapped students have been returned to their families, but authorities continue to search for the remaining victims.
The recent string of abductions has heightened fears and outrage among residents, raising concerns about security in the affected communities.
