Suspected Bandits Demand Residents Evacuate Estate in Minna

Amid rising insecurity, suspected bandits have issued a chilling order for residents to vacate an estate in Minna. Learn more about the situation and ongoing threats in the region

The inhabitants of M.I Wushishi Estate located in Niger State’s capital city, Minna, are gripped with terror due to an ultimatum issued by suspected bandits who seem to be illicit miners. They have warned the residents to evacuate the premises immediately or risk facing fatal consequences.

Following a recent attack on the estate wherein bandits damaged cars and shattered windows of several houses, threats have been made.

On Monday, a local resident who wished to remain anonymous revealed that the assault took place when many male inhabitants were absent at their workplaces.

After the local residents reported the activities of illegal miners to the nearby police station, an incident occurred.

According to a resident, individuals suspected of being miners in the area have demanded that all residents living in M.I Wushishi Housing Estate in Minna, the capital city of Niger State evacuate their homes or face fatal consequences. The group allegedly invaded the community during daylight hours and caused property damage by breaking windows and cars.

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According to the resident, it appeared that the assault was carried out as revenge in response to informing authorities about illegal miners. “They had threatened us previously and eventually followed through with their threat when most of the male residents were away at work. The housing community comprises many high-ranking government officials such as directors and permanent secretaries.”

The resident included that numerous individuals have left the estate tonight because they are afraid of the attacks.

Expressing his concern, he bemoaned the increasing insecurity in the state and pointed out that no place is safe. He highlighted how individuals are forced to flee their homes due to threats from terrorists or bandits alongside hoodlums and miners who also pose a significant threat. In desperation, he questioned where exactly the government was when they needed them most.

The spokesman of Niger State Police Command, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the occurrence on Tuesday and assured that it had been contained. He expounded on the police’s reaction to the emergency call by stating that they received a distress signal reporting miscreants/thugs suspected as illegal miners fighting and assaulting buildings at M.I Wushishi Estate in Minna around 1400hrs on September 2nd, 2024.

According to Abiodun, the miscreants were quickly dispersed by police patrol teams under the guidance of Maitumbi, who is a Divisional Police Officer (DPO).

Regrettably, one individual – whose identity remains unverified at this time – lost their life in the clash with the hooligans. The deceased party was subsequently transported to the morgue located within a general hospital facility.

Abiodun concluded by stating that patrol teams were deployed in the area to prevent a recurrence, while an ongoing investigation seeks to arrest the assailants and restore normalcy.

The assault highlights the increasing precariousness evident in Niger State, where inhabitants persistently confront challenges emanating from numerous unlawful factions.