British News Agency

According to DW, the early morning raids took place in the villages of Tunga-Makeri, Konkoso and Pissa in Niger State.

The villages are part of the Borgu region near the border with Kwara State, where Islamist militants killed more than 160 people earlier this month.

Saturday’s attack occurred amid rising insecurity in northern Nigeria, where authorities are battling both jihadists and armed gangs locally known as “bandits,” who carry out kidnappings for ransom.

According to officials and local residents, many houses were set on fire during the attack.

Niger State police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the attack on Tunga-Makeri.

“Suspected bandits raided Tunga-Makeri village... six people lost their lives and some houses were set ablaze,” he said, adding that “an unspecified number of people were abducted.”

Abiodun also confirmed an attack on Konkoso village but did not provide further details.

Many people are reported missing following the raids, and there are fears that the death toll could rise further.