At least 30 villagers were killed in a series of attacks in western Niger near the border with Nigeria, according to the governor of the Tahoua region. The attacks happened on 26th March, when heavily armed men on motorbikes raided three remote villages in the Birni N’Koni area. The governor said the attackers also stole hundreds of livestock before escaping across the border. Five other people were injured in the violence. No group has claimed responsibility, but the region often faces attacks by Jihadist groups and armed bandits. Tahoua is known as a difficult area where illegal trade, including fuel and drugs, also takes place. Recent weeks have seen more violence, including attacks on a military base and a checkpoint. Despite a strong military presence, the government has struggled to stop these attacks. Armed groups linked to the Islamic State and Boko Haram are active in the wider region.

Pray for the perpetrators behind the violence on the Nigerien-Nigerian border to be brought to justice immediately. Pray for divine protection upon all the civilians living in the border area (The Holy Bible, Psalm 9:9).

Pray for the authorities of Niger and Nigeria to take immediate action against the armed groups threatening the innocent civilians. Pray for an enhanced security system in both countries to combat extremism (The Holy Bible, Proverbs 12:6).

News Source: Punch Newspapers

Image Source: Canva