Police, military step up patrols in Kebbi LG after 33 killed
The Kebbi State Police and military have intensified patrols in response to a tragic cattle rustling incident that resulted in the deaths of 33 individuals in Arewa Local Government Area.
The Kebbi State Police Command has taken decisive action to bolster security in the Bui District of Arewa Local Government Area after a violent cattle rustling incident left 33 residents dead. This tragic event prompted an immediate response, as the police announced the deployment of additional personnel and operational assets to the affected region in coordination with military forces and other security agencies. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, emphasized that these efforts are focused on stabilizing the district and preventing any further violence, reflecting the government’s commitment to ensuring safety in the area.
In the wake of the deadly incident, which has been linked to suspected Lakurawa militants who reportedly crossed into Bui District, the police have issued a thorough statement expressing their condolences to the victims' families and the greater Arewa community. They have also begun preliminary investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack, including the origin of the assailants. Reports suggest that the militants entered Bui District on February 18 with the intention of rustling cattle, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region related to cattle raids and armed conflicts.
Residents of the affected communities are understandably shaken by the incident, prompting calls for enhanced security measures as fear of further attacks lingers. The intensified patrols by police and military forces are essential not only for restoring order but also for reassurance to the local population. This situation underscores the pressing need for effective strategies to mitigate violence and protect vulnerable communities in Kebbi State, as similar incidents highlight the broader implications of insecurity in Nigeria, especially in rural areas plagued by banditry and violent crime.