In a violent clash between residents of Mera community and the newly emerged Lakurawa terrorist group, 15 people were killed near Augie Local Government Area, Kebbi State, on Friday, November 8.

The Lakurawa group, reportedly linked to ISIS affiliates operating in the Sahel region, encountered fierce resistance from local residents after an attempted livestock theft escalated into deadly conflict.

According to a BBC Hausa report, the clash ignited when Lakurawa members attempted to seize animals from a local herder.

The herder, escaping from the attackers, alerted his community, who quickly mobilised in defence. The resulting skirmish left both community members and terrorists dead and many others injured.

A local source described the scene, stating, “The locals succeeded in killing some of the terrorists and injuring others. The survivors among the terrorists carried their casualties and left.”

Although precise details remain unclear, the clash underscores the growing concerns about terrorist activity in the region.

Kebbi State Deputy Governor Umar Abubakar Tafida responded by visiting the grieving community. Accompanied by the Commissioner of Police and the Emir of Argungu, Tafida offered condolences and assurances of heightened security. His visit aimed to reinforce community morale amid increasing threats to rural areas in Kebbi.

The violence in Mera marks a grim chapter in Kebbi’s ongoing struggle against insecurity, highlighting the urgent need for regional stability amidst escalating terror-related violence.