Two vigilante members lost their lives during a deadly confrontation with armed bandits in the Kainji National Park forest, Niger State, authorities confirmed.
The incident reportedly occurred on February 10 around 1:30 p.m., shortly after vigilante reinforcements arrived from Nasarawa State to assist ongoing security operations.
According to sources, the attackers opened fire, leaving two operatives with fatal gunshot wounds.
One of the deceased has been identified as Abdullahi Awala, while the identity of the second remains unverified.
“Several of the bandits managed to flee the forest, although some sustained injuries,” a security official told reporters, highlighting the intensity of the firefight.
Meanwhile, police have launched a manhunt to track the fleeing criminals and restore stability in the forested area. Officials promised timely updates as the operation progresses.
AFRIPOST reports that residents and local security agencies continue to call for increased vigilance, emphasising the persistent threat posed by armed groups in the region.