At least 15 people were killed on Sunday when armed bandits ambushed a local security patrol in the Gwana district of Alkaleri Local Government Area, Bauchi State, in northeastern Nigeria. The attackers also stole dozens of livestock, police and eyewitnesses confirmed.
According to a statement released on Monday by the Bauchi State Police Command, the attack occurred in the early hours when suspected bandits stormed a nearby village and were confronted by vigilante groups. A fierce gun battle erupted, leaving several vigilantes and fleeing civilians dead.
Eyewitnesses described the assault as well-coordinated, with the bandits reportedly arriving on motorcycles and opening fire indiscriminately before rustling cattle and sheep. Police tactical units deployed to the area later recovered multiple bodies and launched a search operation for the attackers.
The Alkaleri axis, bordering the restive Northwest region, has witnessed a surge in rural banditry and communal attacks, often targeting farming communities and livestock owners. Security analysts warn that the latest attack highlights the expanding reach of criminal gangs, many of whom operate across state borders and exploit weak rural defenses. Sunday’s assault comes amid growing insecurity across northern Nigeria, where bandits, kidnappers, and extremist groups have displaced thousands and undermined local economies. The federal government has faced increasing pressure to reform security strategy and better support community-led defense initiatives.
