Suspected Lakurawa terrorists have attacked a mosque in Dadinkowa community, Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State, killing four worshippers and injuring five others.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, the attack occurred on Wednesday evening as congregants observed prayers.
The gunmen reportedly stormed the mosque and opened fire sporadically, causing panic among worshippers.
The publication said the assault was believed to be a reprisal for a failed ambush earlier in the week by suspected Lakurawa members targeting troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA.
The ambush was reportedly aimed at the convoy of Bemgha Koughna, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, during an operational tour in the state.
Security sources disclosed that troops “neutralised” five suspected Lakurawa members near Mayama Hill during the encounter.
“Recovered items included one OJC gun, one PKT gun, two AK-47 rifles, four AK-47 magazines, a bandolier of PKT ammunition, rounds of 12.7mm ammunition, a camel bag containing N840,000, two mobile phones, and five motorcycles.”
Security authorities have confirmed that efforts are ongoing to track down the perpetrators and restore calm in the area. The injured victims were rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
The latest attack adds to growing concerns over Lakurawa activities in the North-West region.
On February 20, suspected Lakurawa terrorists reportedly killed at least 33 residents during coordinated attacks on communities in Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Bashir Usman, had said the insurgents invaded the affected communities to rustle cattle but were confronted by residents, leading to casualties.