11 Dead as Boko Haram Strikes Gold Mine in Niger at Midnight

A deadly attack by suspected Boko Haram terrorists has left 11 people dead at a gold mining site in Karaga, a village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. The attack happened at midnight on February 27, catching the victims in their sleep.

A Targeted Midnight Attack

According to local sources, the terrorists stormed the site while miners, including women and children, were asleep. They killed everyone in sight except for the women and minors aged between 10 and 12. Among the victims were artisanal miners from Bassa, a town that has faced multiple violent attacks over the years.

Security experts believe this attack was a form of retaliation. In October 2024, Boko Haram suffered heavy losses in a failed attempt to invade Bassa. During that clash, five members of the faction, including an explosives expert, were killed. Since then, the terrorists have switched to guerrilla tactics, planting bombs and attacking villages without military presence.

Ongoing Terror in Niger’s Mining Areas

This is not the first time terrorists have targeted mining sites in Niger State. In August 2024, 13 miners were killed in Rafi LGA. In 2022, an attack in Shiroro LGA claimed the lives of about 30 soldiers and over 10 civilians, including police officers. Four Chinese workers were also kidnapped.

Despite government efforts to ban illegal mining, activities continue in many high-risk areas. With few alternative job opportunities, displaced farmers and residents turn to mining, making them easy targets for violent groups.

Boko Haram’s Presence in Niger State

Boko Haram has been active in Niger State since 2020, setting up camps in the Alawa forest. The group moved from Kaduna’s Rijana forest and has since expanded its influence. Even after the military withdrew from Alawa town for “administrative reasons,” the terrorists tightened their grip, forcing many residents to flee.

The state government has yet to find a long-term solution to the crisis. So far, military operations remain the only strategy, but attacks like this show that the terrorists are still a major threat.

Following the attack, funeral prayers were held at the mining site. Seven victims were buried near the mine, while the rest were laid to rest in Bassa town. Two survivors are currently receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Minna.