In a shocking incident, armed bandits have attacked communities in Wanke, near Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State, abducting over 100 residents, including women, children, and the elderly. Among the victims is the Chief Imam, who had recently regained his freedom from a previous kidnapping.
This incident marks the second time the Chief Imam has been taken captive, highlighting the ongoing security crisis in the region. As of press time, state authorities and police had not issued any response to the abductions.
A survivor of the attack spoke to the BBC Hausa Service, revealing that the affected communities are currently under siege, prompting many residents to flee in fear of further assaults. “Near Sabon Layi, over 50 people were taken, and about 50 more were abducted near Dagon Hayi,” he reported, adding that the count is still ongoing as locals remain terrified and are hiding.
Describing the scene, the survivor said, “The terrorists were chasing people as if they were animals. It was a disturbing sight to see how they were being pursued.” He noted that the assailants were on motorbikes, specifically targeting women in their homes and intercepting those trying to escape, herding them into the bush.
The bandits also attacked several communities, including Gira, Ruwa Kusa, Dogon Hayi, and Gidan Kado, where they stole motorcycles, farm produce, smartphones, and provisions from local shops. Despite informing officials in Wanke about the attacks, no action has been taken thus far.
The survivor claimed that these violent incidents have plagued their communities for the past nine years, leading many to migrate to Gusau and other safer areas. “We are facing this calamity, and there are no animals left here anymore,” he lamented. “Once night falls, everyone is deeply worried, as sleeping in the communities has become extremely dangerous.”
Efforts to obtain a response from the police regarding the recent abductions have been unsuccessful, leaving residents to grapple with the ongoing threat of violence in the region