Bandits attacked Niger communities again and kidnapped 24 residents, including a pregnant woman. Eyewitnesses narrated how the armed men moved fast, seized villagers, and injured a blind man. DocuNews Central brings full details, reactions, and local comments.

---

Introduction

Niger State is facing another painful moment. Bandits stormed two communities and seized 24 people. The victims include a pregnant woman who needs urgent care. The attackers also injured a blind resident. Families now struggle with fear and confusion.

DocuNews Central followed the situation closely. Our reports trace how the incident unfolded, how villagers reacted, and how officials responded. You can also check related security stories in Insecurity Updates.

How the Attack Started

The bandits arrived at night. They moved in small groups. They spread across the community fast. Because of their numbers, residents could not resist. Eyewitnesses said the attackers came through the bush path near the old market route.

You can read similar attack patterns in our earlier Niger crisis brief.

Eyewitness Account: “They came like shadows”

One eyewitness, a farmer, heard dogs barking. He stepped outside and saw dark figures moving toward a neighbour’s home. He ran inside and warned his family.

He said:
“They came like shadows. They didn’t talk. They only pointed guns and forced people out.”

A woman who hid indoors with her children said the noise felt unreal. She heard loud banging on her neighbour’s door. She said the screams still echo in her mind.

She told DocuNews Central:
“I heard them shouting. They ordered people outside. Everyone was scared. Children cried.”

Find more eyewitness stories in our community survival reports.

How the Pregnant Woman Was Taken

The abductors moved from compound to compound. They selected victims quickly. They forced the pregnant woman to join the group. Her relatives begged for mercy. They explained she needed medical attention. The attackers ignored them.

The Blind Resident Who Was Injured

A blind resident got injured after calling out for help during the attack. The attackers shoved him aside. The push caused injuries. Local youths rushed to him after the attackers left. They took him to a nearby clinic.

More on community healthcare support appears in our rural emergency care page.

Movement of the Bandits

The bandits avoided the main road. They moved through farms and stream paths. These routes remain unguarded and often exploited. Security experts issued similar warnings in our security-risk map review.

Local Village Comments

Villagers expressed pain and frustration.

A community elder said:
“We cannot sleep well. Every night feels dangerous. We need help.”

A youth leader added:
“We try to protect our homes. But we lack training and tools. We want stronger support.”

A mother who hid with her three children said:
“My children shake when they hear loud sounds. We want peace again.”

More local voices appear in our community feedback hub.

How Families Reacted During the Attack

Many families hid in tight spaces. Some switched off lamps so their homes looked empty. Others whispered prayers. Parents held their children close. They waited for silence.

After the attack, people checked on neighbours. They gathered information. They comforted each other.

Security Forces Arrive

Security teams arrived after distress calls. They searched the area. They spoke to residents. They studied the direction of the attackers’ escape route.

For earlier police responses, visit our policing action timeline.

Search and Rescue Efforts

The search for the victims continues. Community volunteers joined security teams. They walked through farms. They followed tracks. Their knowledge of the terrain helps the search effort.

Security sources believe the abductors moved toward a known hideout area. More updates appear in our rapid-response tracker.

How the Community Supports Victims’ Families

Villagers support the families left behind. They share food. They share water. They provide comfort. Women in the community also support the pregnant woman’s family by preparing meals and watching her other children.

Impact on Daily Life

Life changed instantly. People avoid moving alone. Children stay indoors late in the day. Farmers return home earlier than before. Markets remain open, but fewer people visit. Traders worry about surprise attacks. Local businesses also feel the impact of reduced activity.

Government Response

The state government condemned the attack. Officials promised stronger patrols. They met with security commanders to design new strategies. They also visited the affected communities and assured residents that the search for the victims will continue.

Past government statements remain available in our official briefing archive.

Residents Demand Long-Term Solutions

Villagers want better surveillance. They want stronger patrol units. They want early-warning systems. Many residents asked for community training on threat detection. Others want communication devices for fast reporting.

More ideas appear in our rural safety handbook.

Role of Traditional Leaders

Traditional rulers addressed the community. They urged calm. They encouraged cooperation with security forces. They asked residents to report suspicious movement quickly.

DocuNews Central’s Involvement

DocuNews Central continues to track the situation. Our reporters gathered eyewitness accounts. They verified major claims. They followed up with security officials. We remain committed to providing clear and accurate updates.

Find all related stories on the DocuNews Central Insecurity Desk.

Conclusion

The abduction of 24 residents has shaken Niger State deeply. The community fears for the pregnant woman who needs urgent care. The injury to the blind resident adds to the emotional weight. Yet, the people remain united. They support each other. They cooperate with security teams. They hope for the safe return of everyone taken.

DocuNews Central will continue to provide updates as new details emerge.