Suspected bandits killed at least three people and abducted 26 others in a series of coordinated attacks on Ƙauran-Namoda communities in Zamfara State between Thursday and Saturday.
Sabon-Gari village was hardest hit, with one woman killed and about 20 residents kidnapped. Some sources claim the actual toll may be higher, including a man, his two wives, and their children among the abducted.
The assaults reportedly occurred in the early hours of Saturday, despite a security presence in the area. The attackers are believed to be loyal to notorious bandit leader Bello Kaura, alias Ɗan Sade, who operates in multiple LGAs across the state.
Fear and displacement have gripped several communities, including Unguwan Rogo and Yamitsawa, with locals fleeing nightly and returning during the day. Villagers are calling for a permanent military base in Kungurki.
In a separate incident on Thursday, four were killed and one person abducted in Kungurki. A N3 million ransom was later demanded without proof of life, prompting villagers to withhold payment.
Other attacks included the shooting of Birnin Magaji’s LG Secretary and the abduction of his brother, as well as the killing of two drivers and the kidnapping of passengers on the Kaura-Gusau road.
Police said they were yet to confirm the incidents, as the state PPRO was away at a seminar.
Governor Dauda Lawal has pledged to combat the violence, donating 140 vehicles to security forces and launching the Community Protection Guards initiative. He also honored fallen security personnel, vowing their sacrifices would not be forgotten.
