Armed bandits killed at least 20 people in separate attacks Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State.

The attack was reportedly in response to an attack by a government-supported militia against a bandit camp near Magami in the Shroro LGA, on Wednesday.

The attack resulted in several casualties among the suspected bandits, according to local sources.

The Bandit conflict in northwest Nigeria is an ongoing conflict between the Nigerian Government and various gangs and ethnic militias.

Starting in 2011 with insecurity left from conflict between the Fulani and Hausa ethnic groups, the insecurity quickly allowed other criminals to form in the region.

Large-scale weapon smuggling has allowed criminal gangs access to heavy weapons increasing the deadliness of attacks.

Underequipped local and federal forces coupled with the harsh terrain make offensive actions into the forest dangerous and susceptible to ambushes and attacks.

Continued government inability to effectively deal with the problem has allowed the insecurity to spread and grow in ferocity. (ILKHA)