By Priscilla Campbell, Minna
No fewer than 60 armed bandits have invaded Madaka and neighbouring communities in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.
It was gathered that the men, on motorcycles, stormed the areas at about 6am Wednesday shooting sporadically leading to confusion.
Not less than 100 cows, according to eyewitness were said to have been rustled and a number of persons kidnapped in the operation.
“They (bandits) arrived our village on motorcycles, shooting and there was confusion all over. Those kidnapped were being used as shields in their escape efforts. Now, we cannot say if there are any casualties or death until after the situation has calmed down,” a source said.
According to the source, “The Nigerian Airforce was swift in attending to our distress calls because right now, we can see their helicopters hovering in the air to get the bandits”.
However, efforts to reach the Chairman of Rafi Local Government Area, Alhaji Ismaila Isa Modibo, failed as his cell phone was switched off.
Similarly, the Police Public Relations Officer, Muhammad Abubakar, could not be reached as he did not pick his calls.