Women Abducted as Bandits Attack Niger Community, Torch Police Station

 Women Abducted as Bandits Attack Niger Community, Torch Police Station

Fresh details have emerged following a violent bandit attack on communities in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State, where several women were abducted during a coordinated overnight assault that also saw a police facility set ablaze.

The attack, which reportedly occurred on the night of January 31, 2026, has heightened fear among residents and renewed concerns about the worsening security situation in rural parts of the state. According to local accounts, heavily armed attackers invaded parts of Agwara under the cover of darkness, firing gunshots and moving from house to house before fleeing with their captives.

Residents described the incident as terrifying, saying many villagers had little time to react as the assailants overwhelmed the area. Several women were taken from their homes, while others narrowly escaped by hiding in nearby bushes and farms. By the time help could arrive, the attackers had already retreated into surrounding forests.

In addition to the abductions, the assailants reportedly set fire to the Agwara Divisional Police Station, causing extensive damage to the building and equipment. The destruction of the station has raised serious questions about the ability of security agencies to respond quickly to emergencies in the area, especially during night-time attacks.

A security analyst who monitors insurgency and banditry in the region later confirmed the identities of some of the abducted women through a public security alert issued on Friday. The analyst noted that the victims were taken on the same night the police station was attacked, describing the incident as a clear indication of the growing boldness of armed groups operating in the state.

According to the alert, efforts are ongoing to gather intelligence that could help security forces locate the abducted women and secure their release. Families of the victims have been thrown into distress, appealing to government authorities and security agencies to intensify rescue operations and prevent further attacks.

Community leaders in Agwara have condemned the assault, describing it as another painful reminder of the vulnerability of rural communities. They expressed concern that repeated attacks have disrupted daily life, forcing residents to live in constant fear. Many farmers, they said, are now afraid to go to their fields, while some families are considering relocating to safer areas.

“This incident has shaken the entire community,” a local source said. “People are worried, especially parents and guardians. The abduction of women from their homes shows that nowhere feels safe anymore.”

The Niger State Government has previously acknowledged the challenges posed by banditry and criminal activities in parts of the state. While security operations have been launched in several locations, residents say attackers continue to exploit difficult terrain and limited security presence in remote communities.

Security experts warn that the destruction of police infrastructure, such as stations and outposts, further weakens local security response and emboldens criminal groups. They have called for improved intelligence gathering, better equipment for security personnel, and stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities.

Human rights advocates have also urged authorities to prioritize the protection of women and children, who are often the most affected during such attacks. They stressed the need for trauma support for victims’ families and survivors, as well as long-term strategies to address the root causes of insecurity.

As of the time of this report, no official statement had been released confirming the exact number of women abducted. However, security sources say efforts are ongoing to track the attackers and ensure the safe return of those still in captivity.

The incident adds to a growing list of bandit attacks in Niger State and other parts of northern Nigeria, where communities continue to face kidnappings, arson, and violent raids. Residents are calling on authorities to act decisively to restore confidence and ensure lasting peace.