Nigerian Healthworkers Snatched, Killed by Gunmen

FILE: This photo taken on April 26, 2015 in Paris shows a Kalashnikov AK-47 gun., commonly used by criminals and terrorists as well as by legitimate military.

Gunmen abducted at least 10 healthcare workers in Nigeria's Niger state and killed an unspecified number after invading a general hospital early Tuesday, sources said.

The Gulu General Hospital in Lapal, Niger State, said more than 20 staff were kidnapped, including patient relatives.

A security source said two people had been killed after the gunmen invaded the medical facility in large numbers.

Niger state governor, Sani Bello, did not specify how many had been killed.

Armed bandits operating for cash have kidnapped or killed hundreds across northwest Nigeria.

Officials there have also said that Islamist militant group Boko Haram had taken over multiple communities in the state, offering villagers money and incorporating them in their ranks to fight the government