The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has confirmed a terrorist attack on its personnel deployed to the Wawa area of Borgu Local Government Area in Niger State.
The state Commandant of the corps, Mr. Suberu Siyaka-Aniviye, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Minna on Wednesday. He said the attackers struck in large numbers shortly after midnight but were prevented from operating freely due to the vigilance and swift response of officers on duty.
According to Siyaka-Aniviye, NSCDC personnel initially attempted to repel the attackers, but the situation became challenging because of the terrorists’ numerical advantage and the darkness in the area.
He explained that the attackers used torchlights to identify movements before opening fire, forcing the officers to tactically manoeuvre and take cover.
“Our men manoeuvred and took cover, but the attackers fired sporadically because they were heavily armed,” the commandant said.
He added that while retreating to safety, the personnel abandoned their operational vehicle. The attackers, believing the officers were still inside, reportedly opened fire on the vehicle repeatedly.
The vehicle was later found riddled with bullets, with its windscreen damaged and all four tyres punctured. Siyaka-Aniviye said the tyres were subsequently replaced and the vehicle was driven back to the NSCDC headquarters in Minna.
He further revealed that the attackers looted personal belongings during the incident.
“They went into nearby huts and carted away luggage containing clothes, mobile phones and other gadgets,” he said.
