Nigeria Hit by Militant Attacks and Kidnappings

Armed groups have carried out attacks in parts of northern Nigeria, killing civilians and abducting students during raids on communities in Borno, Kaduna and Zamfara states.

Local authorities said gunmen attacked villages late at night, burning homes and forcing residents to flee their abodes. Security officials confirmed that students travelling between neighbouring communities were among those abducted during the attacks.

The Nigerian military has launched counter-terrorism operations in the affected areas, deploying troops and aerial surveillance to track the attackers and secure nearby communities.

Defence authorities said security operations are ongoing as efforts continue to rescue those kidnapped and prevent further attacks.

Human rights groups have criticised repeated attacks on rural communities and schools across northern Nigeria, where armed groups continue to target civilians for ransom and intimidation.

The United Nations estimates that millions of people remain displaced across northern Nigeria due to insurgency, banditry and communal violence.

SOURCE: Reuters