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Arewa LGA, Kebbi State | By Prime Brief Media

Suspected Lakurawa militants have attacked Fasken Rafi village in Arewa Local Government Area, Kebbi State, killing at least 20 people in a brutal late‑night assault.

The attack happened on June 14, 2026, and is one of the deadliest in Kebbi State this year.

What happened

According to survivors, the attackers arrived on motorcycles and in trucks around 11pm, surrounding the village before opening fire.

“They were shouting in a language we did not understand,” one survivor said. “They shot anyone they saw. Men, women, children. No one was spared.”

The militants also set fire to several houses and looted food supplies. Many villagers fled into the surrounding bush and remained there until morning.

By dawn, residents had counted 20 bodies. Some reports suggest the number could be higher, as several people are still missing.

Who are the Lakurawa?

Lakurawa is a relatively new militant group that has been active in parts of Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara states. Security analysts describe them as a hybrid of banditry and jihadist ideology, though their exact affiliations remain unclear.

The group has been linked to several mass abductions and village raids in the area over the past year. They are known for their brutality and for operating across Nigeria’s border with Niger Republic.

Government response

Kebbi State Deputy Governor Umar Abubakar Tafida led a high‑level delegation to Fasken Rafi village on June 15 to assess the damage and condole with residents.

“This is a heinous crime against innocent people,” the Deputy Governor said. “We will deploy additional security forces to Arewa LGA and neighbouring areas. We will not rest until these killers are brought to justice.”

The Deputy Governor also announced immediate relief for victims’ families, including cash support and food supplies.

Community anger

Despite the government’s promises, residents expressed frustration and anger.

“We have been reporting suspicious movements for weeks,” a community leader said. “Nobody listened. Now our people are dead.”

Others called for a more permanent military presence in Arewa LGA, arguing that periodic patrols are not enough to deter well‑armed militants.

What happens next?

Security forces have been deployed to Fasken Rafi to prevent further attacks. A manhunt for the militants is ongoing, but no arrests have been announced.

The victims were buried on June 15 in a mass funeral attended by hundreds of mourners.

Stay informed. Stay ahead.

Prime Brief Media