Gunmen abduct 14 Islamic school students in Niger

Suspected bandits have abducted 14 students of an Islamic school in Pandogari, Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.

The students were reportedly abducted on Saturday, while helping their teacher, also known as a Mallam, harvest maize on his farm in Tungan-Bako village.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Niger State Command, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident on Monday, clarifying that 14 students were abducted and not 50, as reported in some quarters.

He said joint security operatives had commenced rescue efforts to secure the release of the victims.

“The report further indicated that the abducted victims were about 14 students of an Islamiya helping their Mallam to harvest maize on the farm before the incident.

“However, joint security rescue efforts are ongoing; further developments will be communicated,” he said.