Rampaging bandits have once again targeted communities in Zamfara State, abducting over 100 people, including women, children, and the elderly, in an attack on areas near the state capital, Gusau.
The attack occurred in Wanke, where the victims were taken by the assailants, who stormed multiple villages.
Among those abducted was the community’s Chief Imam, who had previously been kidnapped and was recovering from a leg injury. This marks the second time the Chief Imam has been taken by bandits, according to local reports.
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As of press time, neither state authorities nor the police had issued a statement regarding the attack.
A survivor shared their harrowing experience with the BBC Hausa Service, recounting the turmoil and fear that engulfed the affected communities. “Near Sabon Layi, over 50 people were taken, and near Dogon Hayi, about 50 more were abducted,” the survivor explained. “The exact number is still uncertain because of the chaos and panic as locals fled.”
Describing the terrifying ordeal, the survivor continued, “The terrorists chased people as if they were hunting animals. They pursued people on motorbikes, tracked women inside their homes, and abducted them. Some were intercepted while attempting to flee and were herded into the bush.”
The assailants targeted several other communities, including Gira, Ruwa Kusa, Dogon Hayi, and Gidan Kado. In addition to the abductions, they stole motorcycles, farm produce, and personal items such as smartphones, and looted shops for provisions.
Despite community members alerting officials in Wanke, there has been no response from the authorities so far. “These attacks have plagued our communities for nearly nine years, driving many residents to seek refuge in Gusau and other areas,” the survivor lamented. “There are no animals here anymore. Once night falls, everyone is filled with dread, as staying in these communities overnight has become extremely dangerous.”
Efforts to reach the police for comment on the incident were unsuccessful, according to the BBC Hausa report.
