Bandits in Zamfara State abducted over 100 villagers, including women, children, and a local Imam previously freed from captivity. Communities near Gusau were ransacked, with attackers looting homes and shops. Authorities have yet to respond, leaving locals in fear as violence escalates across the region.
In a recent violent attack, bandits abducted over 100 villagers from various communities in Zamfara State, Nigeria. The incident occurred in Wanke, near the state capital, Gusau, targeting multiple communities, including Gira, Ruwa Kusa, Dogon Hayi, and Gidan Kado. Among those taken were women, children, the elderly, and the community’s Chief Imam, who had previously been released from captivity and was recovering from a leg injury. This marks the second abduction of the Chief Imam, highlighting the severe and recurring security threats in the region.
Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants, armed and aggressive, pursued villagers on motorbikes, even entering homes to capture residents. They reportedly herded fleeing individuals into the bush, creating a widespread atmosphere of terror and helplessness. Survivors described how the attackers looted homes, stole motorcycles, and emptied shops of their goods, leaving the communities devastated and in fear of future violence.
One survivor recounted the chaos, stating that around 50 people were taken near Sabon Layi, with another 50 abducted from Dogon Hayi. Due to the commotion and rapid escape efforts, the exact number of kidnapped individuals remains uncertain.
The communities have been under similar threats for nearly nine years, with residents fleeing to nearby towns, such as Gusau, for safety. Although local authorities were alerted, no official statement or action has been taken by Zamfara State’s police or government, further underscoring the desperate security situation in the area.
