Zamfara faces yet another tragedy as bandits abduct over 100 residents in a recent attack. Get the latest updates on the incident and efforts to secure their release.
In a tragic incident, bandits have kidnapped more than 100 individuals from the Wanke communities, located near Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State.
Among those abducted were women, children, the elderly, and the Chief Imam of the community, who had recently been freed from a previous captivity and was undergoing treatment for a leg injury.
This incident marks the second abduction of the Chief Imam, further heightening the anxiety and distress within the community.
Local reports indicate that the event has plunged the affected areas into chaos, prompting many residents to flee in an effort to escape additional assaults.
Currently, there has been no official statement from state authorities or the police regarding this incident.
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Survivors have recounted their harrowing experiences, illustrating the pervasive atmosphere of fear and uncertainty that has enveloped the region.
“Near Sabon Layi, over 50 individuals were taken, and around Dogon Hayi, approximately 50 more were abducted,” one survivor stated, noting that the precise number remains unclear due to the ensuing chaos and panic as locals sought safety.
“The assailants pursued individuals as if they were hunting prey,” he continued. “They chased people on motorbikes, tracked women within their homes, and seized them. Some were caught while trying to escape and were driven into the bush.”
He detailed how the attackers targeted several communities, including Gira, Ruwa Kusa, Dogon Hayi, and Gidan Kado, where they stole motorcycles, agricultural products, and personal belongings such as smartphones. They also ransacked shops for supplies.
Community members reportedly informed officials in Wanke, but there has yet to be any official response.
The survivor expressed that these attacks have plagued their communities for nearly nine years, forcing many residents to seek refuge in Gusau and other locations. “There are no animals left here,” he lamented. “Once night falls, fear grips everyone, as remaining in these communities overnight has become exceedingly perilous.”
The BBC Hausa report indicated that attempts to obtain comments from the police regarding the situation have been unsuccessful.
