Niger govt urges locals to stay clear of mine areas, gives reason
The Niger State Government has raised concerns over the presence of suspected landmines planted by terrorists in parts of Shiroro Local Government Area.
In response, authorities have urged residents, particularly those living in farming communities on the fringes of Basa, to avoid areas believed to be contaminated with landmines.
This precautionary measure is vital to prevent further casualties until the military completes its clearance operations.
Speaking in Minna after the 2024 Base Socio-Cultural Activities (BASA) event at the 013 Quick Response Force of the Nigerian Air Force, Bello Abdullahi, the Commissioner for Homeland Security, emphasized the urgency of the situation. “We are calling on residents… to exercise caution and restrict their movement. Until the military completes its clearance of suspected mines, it is unsafe to venture into these areas,” Abdullahi said.
Intelligence reports have confirmed that terrorists are increasingly using bombs as part of their escalating threat to the region’s security.
This warning comes after a tragic incident on December 19, 2024, when a series of three bomb explosions rocked the Bassa community in Shiroro, resulting in three fatalities and five injuries. The government has stressed the need for caution while the military works to secure the area.
