By Ola ’Kiya, Reporting
ARMED men have reportedly abducted an unspecified number of students and teachers during an attack on St. Mary’s Primary and Secondary School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.
The attackers, said to be riding on more than 60 motorcycles and accompanied by a van, stormed the private Catholic boarding school in the early hours of Friday.
According to community sources, the gunmen shot the school’s gatekeeper, leaving him with severe injuries, before gaining access to the premises.
A resident of Agwara who confirmed the incident said:
“Yes, it happened between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. The number of students abducted is not yet confirmed.”
Another source said that teachers were also taken during the assault, describing the incident as a tragedy that had thrown the community and affected families into deep distress.
“Students and teachers were forcefully taken away during the attack. This is an extremely distressing moment for families, the community, and Niger State as a whole,” the source added.
Although authorities have not released official figures, community members fear the number of abducted individuals may be substantial, with some speculating that it could exceed 100 persons.
The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the incident.
In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said tactical teams, military units, and other security operatives had been deployed to the area.
He noted that joint security forces were currently conducting extensive search operations within the forests surrounding Papiri to ensure the swift and safe rescue of the victims.
Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Elleman, urged residents to remain calm and assist security agencies with credible information that could aid the rescue operation.
However, the Commissioner criticised the management of St. Mary’s School for continuing academic activities despite an earlier government directive ordering the closure of schools in the area due to heightened security threats.
He assured that the matter would be thoroughly investigated and appropriate actions taken.
Authorities are yet to provide an official headcount of those abducted, but rescue efforts are ongoing.
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