Two immigration officers serving in Kebbi State were killed by suspected bandits on Monday, January 15, 2024, at the Kangiwa border in Arewa Local Government Area. The deceased officers were identified as Isa Nafi'u and Garba Haruna Fana, who were on duty at the entry point in Gari Garba, about 12 kilometres away from Kangiwa town. A third officer escaped unhurt.
The spokesperson of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Kebbi, Abdullahi Isa, confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday. He said the suspected bandits launched the attack on the gallant officers around 10:00 am, and that the officers put up a brave fight before they were overpowered by the superior firepower of the attackers.
He said the two officers have been buried according to Islamic rites in Birnin Kebbi, and that the NIS has launched an investigation into the incident. He also condoled with the families of the slain officers and prayed for the repose of their souls.
The attack on the immigration officers is the latest in a series of violent incidents involving bandits in Kebbi State. In December 2023, bandits kidnapped 21 students and three teachers from a secondary school in Birnin Yauri. They also killed a police officer and a student during the operation. The abductees were later rescued by security forces after a gun battle with the bandits.
The governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, has condemned the attack on the immigration officers and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. He also commended the security agencies for their efforts in combating banditry and other criminal activities in the state. He urged the people of Kebbi to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement to the authorities.
#KebbiBanditAttack
#NigeriaImmigrationService
#KangiwaBorder
#Banditry
#Security
