New terrorist group, Mahmuda kills man burns houses in Kwara
By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
Members of a new terrorist group, ‘Mahmuda’ have launched an attack on Karongi town in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara state.
The incidence took place few days ago.
The attack, which occurred between 6 am and 11 am, resulted in the death of one person and the destruction of several houses.
The attackers are believed to be of Fulani stock.
According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen took advantage of the absence of vigilantes in the community, who had travelled to attend a workshop or celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.
The bandits invaded the town, killing a resident and setting houses ablaze before being dislodged by a combined team of soldiers and vigilantes from neighboring settlements.
The Emir of Yashikira Emirate, Alhaji Umoru Sariki, confirmed the incident, stating, “Yes, the bandits from Mahmuda group struck at about 6 am on Sunday. They attacked Karongi town in my Emirate. They killed one person and burnt many houses in the community.”
The Emir added, “They took advantage of the absence of the vigilantes who had travelled for Sallah while some had also gone for training. They invaded the town for hours, from 6 am to 11 am. We had to go to the surrounding communities in the Emirate to mobilise local vigilantes who succeeded to chase them away at about 11 o’clock.”
The Nigerian Army also confirmed the attack. Lt. Stephen Nwankwo, Public Relations Officer of the 22 Brigade, stated, “Yes, the incident happened. I’m aware. One person was killed while some makeshift houses were set ablaze by the gunmen. The soldiers were alerted about the incident and they went to the village. The person who was killed was killed by the gunmen. The bandits ran away on sighting the soldiers and escaped from the area.”
However, the police initially feigned ignorance of the attack. Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, Police Public Relations Officer in Kwara State, said she was not aware of the incident and promised to investigate and get back.
The attack highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region and the need for increased vigilance and cooperation between security agencies and local communities.
