33 lives Lost in Arewa LGA , Kebbi State Following Armed Rustling Incident

The Kebbi State Police Command has reinforced security presence in Bui District of Arewa Local Government Area following a deadly armed cattle rustling incident that claimed 33 lives last Wednesday.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital.

According to the statement, the police are working in collaboration with the military and other security agencies to restore calm and prevent further violence in the affected communities.

Reinforced Security, Ongoing Patrols
The police confirmed that additional personnel and operational assets have been deployed to the district. Sustained area domination patrols are currently underway as part of efforts to stabilize the area and reassure residents.

The Command expressed deep regret over the loss of lives, describing the victims as innocent citizens caught in a tragic confrontation. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families affected and to the entire Arewa community during this difficult time,” the statement read.

How the Incident Unfolded
Preliminary investigations indicate that armed Lakurawa militants invaded the district with the intent to rustle cattle. Authorities believe the assailants crossed into Bui District from Gudu Local Government Area in neighboring Sokoto State.

Communities affected by the attack include Mamunu, Awasaka, Tungan Tsoho, Makangara, Kanzo, Gorun Naidal, and Dan Mai Ago. Residents reportedly mobilized in response to the incursion, leading to a fatal confrontation with the heavily armed rustlers.

Security officials stressed that while community vigilance is important, direct engagement with armed criminal elements poses grave risks.

Police Advisory to the Public
The Command emphasized that incidents involving armed groups require coordinated intervention by trained security operatives.

Members of the public have been urged to promptly report suspicious movements through established security channels rather than confront suspected criminals.
“Such confrontations endanger lives and complicate security operations,” the statement warned.

Targeted operations are ongoing to track and apprehend those responsible, prevent a recurrence, and strengthen early warning mechanisms across vulnerable communities in the region.

Residents are encouraged to contact the Police Control Room through the following numbers: 08038797644 and 09015888578.

Authorities have assured the public of their commitment to restoring lasting peace and safeguarding lives and property across Arewa Local Government Area and other parts of Kebbi State.