Fatal Assault in Kwara, Nigeria as US Troops Deployment Confirmed

A brutal attack in Kwara, Nigeria, has resulted in the deaths of dozens, as US military presence in the country is acknowledged amidst ongoing violence.

Dozens of people have been killed by unidentified gunmen in a ferocious attack on two villages in Nigeria's western state of Kwara, local lawmaker Saidu Baba Ahmed has reported. The attackers set fire to shops and homes, resulting in panic among residents who fled the scenes.

The death toll remains uncertain; while Ahmed stated that at least 35 deaths occurred, a Red Cross official indicated that the figure had escalated to 162.

This violent incident is one among several assaults across Nigeria in recent days, coinciding with the revelation that a small team of US troops has been deployed in support of Nigerian security forces, as confirmed by the country's Defence Minister.

The US military's involvement is said to be focused on intelligence support following requests from the Nigerian government. The heightened military collaboration comes in response to Nigeria's dire security situation, characterized by rampant criminal activity and Islamist insurgencies.

Kwara police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi blamed suspected bandits for the attack, which began in the early evening. Various security forces have been deployed to the area as search operations continue.

The influx of armed groups and continued violence has posed significant challenges to Nigeria's security landscape, prompting US engagement to combat these threats.