Police rescue six abducted farmers in Niger and foil attacks across several states

Police and other security forces rescued six farmers abducted in Mahangi, Niger State, during a joint operation on October 29, 2026. In Zamfara, five elderly women abducted during an attack on a farm were rescued, while a 35-year-old farmer was killed. Security forces also repelled an attack reportedly by suspected Lakurawa fighters in Ribah, Kebbi State, and foiled an attempted attack in Karofi, Katsina State. In Kano, five people suspected of harbouring criminals were arrested and 48 cows, 43 sheep and two motorcycles recovered during an investigation into the abduction of a local APC official.