Residents of several communities in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have been thrown into panic following reports that suspected bandits issued threats of a coordinated attack.
The communities most affected include Kungaboku community and Paze community, located in Bwari Area Council, where many residents have reportedly begun fleeing their homes after a threatening message linked to the bandits surfaced.
According to reports, the threat was discovered in a pupil’s school notebook at a private school in Paze. A teacher reportedly found a letter allegedly written by suspected bandits warning that they planned to attack the communities in retaliation for the killing of one of their commanders during a recent security operation.
The discovery of the letter quickly spread through local WhatsApp groups and social media platforms, causing widespread fear among residents. Many families reportedly abandoned their homes and sought refuge in nearby communities over fears that the threat could be carried out.
The tension comes after a recent joint security operation involving troops of the Nigerian Army, police officers, and vigilantes rescued 19 kidnapped victims in the area. During that operation, a bandit was reportedly killed while others fled with gunshot wounds.
Security forces also recovered weapons, including an AK-47 rifle and a locally made firearm, during the rescue operation. The killing of the bandit commander during the raid is believed to have triggered the threat now circulating among residents.
Adding to the tension, suspected bandits had earlier attacked a Fulani settlement in Kungaboku and abducted three women, reportedly demanding a ransom of ₦70 million for their release.
Following the growing panic, the Divisional Police Officer overseeing the area convened a security meeting with community leaders at the palace of the village head, Chief Ishaya Jagaba, to address the situation and reassure residents.
Police authorities confirmed the existence of the threat message but assured residents that proactive security measures were being put in place to prevent any attack. The police also advised communities to remain vigilant and monitor the activities of unfamiliar individuals entering the area.
Residents were urged to profile new arrivals in their communities and pay close attention to the activities of commercial motorcyclists and scavengers, who security officials warned could sometimes act as informants for criminal groups.
Security patrols are expected to be intensified in the affected communities while discussions are ongoing about establishing a police post in the area to improve rapid response to threats.
Despite these assurances, anxiety remains high among residents, many of whom say they fear that the threats could lead to another violent attack if security measures are not strengthened.
Post a Comment