WorldStage– Attackers suspected to be gunmen have killed nine soldiers and one policeman in a deadly ambush attack on Tuesday night, March 24, 2026 in the Giro Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, northwestern Nigeria.
In Kebbi State, gunmen often locally referred to as “bandits” or members of the Lakurawa insurgent group, have carried out a series of increasingly sophisticated attacks targeting security forces, rural communities, and schools.
Tuesday incident follows a series of recent security challenges in the region, including a foiled ambush in February 2026 targeting the convoy of a General Officer Commanding (GOC) near Mayama Hill, where five terrorists were neutralized.
According to security reports, the attack followed a tip-off from residents about gunmen at a construction company yard after which security personnel were dispatched to the site but were ambushed en route, resulting in the death of nine soldiers and a policeman.
Two civilians from the community were also confirmed dead and multiple others sustained injuries and are receiving treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi.
The assailants were also reported to have set fire to two military gun trucks during the assault.
Governor Nasir Idris confirmed the attack after visiting victims at the hospital and has pledged that the state government will cover medical expenses and support the families of the deceased.
They operate primarily along the Nigeria–Niger border, specifically in the Augie and Arewa LGAs.
Unlike typical bandit groups that focus solely on kidnapping for ransom, Lakurawa has been known to impose illegal “taxes” and seize livestock while engaging in organized, large-scale assaults.
In February 2026, the group was accused of killing at least 33 to 34 people in coordinated raids on several villages in the Bui District of Arewa LGA.
The southern part of Kebbi, particularly the Danko/Wasagu and Zuru LGAs, remains a hotspot for traditional banditry due to its proximity to the forests of Zamfara and Niger states.
In November 2025, gunmen kidnapped 25 schoolgirls from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, killing the vice principal during the raid.
Throughout 2025, communities in Zuru and Danko/Wasagu experienced frequent raids where bandits killed dozens of residents and rustled thousands of cattle.
The state’s long, remote borders with Niger and Benin Republics facilitate the movement of foreign militants and arms, with thick forest corridors such as the Kuyambana–Kamuku axis providing hideouts that are difficult for security forces to patrol.
High levels of poverty and unemployment among local youth are often cited as factors that aid recruitment for these armed groups.
