Bandit Attack On Niger Market Kills Over 30, Many Others Kidnapped

At least 30 people, including women, were killed when bandits raided Kasuwan Daji market in Demo community, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State on Saturday.

The attackers reportedly looted foodstuffs and other valuables worth millions of naira before setting the market ablaze. According to reports, the raid began around 4 pm and continued into the early hours of Sunday.

Residents said several people were also abducted during the attack. One local, speaking to Daily Trust by phone, claimed that more than 50 people were tied up and killed as the bandits moved through the area unopposed.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers emerged from the National Park in Borgu LGA and carried out the raid in broad daylight.

Confirming the incident, Niger State Police Command spokesperson SP Wasiu Abiodun said over 30 people died and several others were kidnapped.

He stated: “On 03/01/2026 at about 9 pm, information received revealed that at about 4:30 pm of the same date, suspected bandits from the National Park forest along Kabe District invaded Kasuwan-Daji, located at Demo Village via Kabe, and burnt the market, looted shops, and carted away food items. On 04/01/2026 at about 8 am, a report indicated that a joint security team visited the scene, and over 30 victims lost their lives during the attack. Some persons were also kidnapped. Efforts are ongoing to rescue the kidnapped victims. Further developments will be communicated.”