Over 100 Kidnapped in Zamfara Bandit Village Raids

According to the reports on Thursday (7 November), In a recent wave of violence, bandits in Zamfara State kidnapped over 100 people from various communities near Gusau, including women, children, the elderly, and a local Chief Imam. The assailants reportedly stormed the villages on motorbikes, forcing their victims into the wilderness. Among the villages targeted were Wanke, Gira, Ruwa Kusa, Dogon Hayi, and Gidan Kado, with each community suffering extensive losses and terror.

Witnesses recounted scenes of chaos, as the bandits pursued fleeing residents, sometimes intercepting people in their homes. Desperate villagers tried to escape, but many were caught and herded into the bush. Besides taking hostages, the attackers stole motorcycles, food supplies, and mobile phones, and even looted local shops for goods and provisions. Despite the seriousness of the attack, no immediate response has come from state or police authorities.

One survivor shared his account with BBC Hausa, describing the fear gripping residents. He said people are terrified to stay in their villages, especially at night, when the risk of another attack feels imminent. Many have left their homes, seeking safety in other areas, such as the state capital, Gusau, while those remaining face nightly anxiety and extreme danger.

This is not the first time the region has suffered from such violence, as bandit attacks have plagued these communities for nearly a decade. The lack of a timely government response has fueled frustration and helplessness among the villagers, who feel abandoned and vulnerable. With escalating violence, residents continue to live in fear, under siege by bandits who show no signs of relenting.

References

• Zamfara Kidnappings Leave Over 100 Captives in Bandit Attack on Several Villages
• Chief Imam, About 100 Others Kidnapped As Gunmen Attack Zamfara Communities