In a series of devastating attacks, bandits have abducted more than 100 people from communities in Wanke, near Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State. Among those abducted were women, children, the elderly, and the Chief Imam, who was recovering from a leg injury. This incident marks the second time the Imam has been kidnapped, a local source revealed to Vanguard.
The Zamfara State government and police have yet to respond to the attack, but a survivor recounted to the BBC Hausa Service that affected communities remain under siege, leading to widespread migration as residents fear further violence. The survivor reported that around 50 people were taken near Sabon Layi and another 50 near Dogon Hayi, though the actual number of abductees is still being counted as many villagers fled in terror.
According to the survivor, the attackers were relentless, chasing people on motorbikes and abducting women from their homes. “It was deeply disturbing to see people being chased down like animals,” he said, adding that those attempting to escape were intercepted and forcibly taken into the bush.
The bandits targeted the communities of Gira, Ruwa Kusa, Dogon Hayi, and Gidan Kado, looting motorcycles, farm produce, phones, and shop provisions. Locals reported the situation to officials in Wanke, but no response had been received by press time.
The survivor also highlighted the long-standing threat that banditry poses to these communities, recounting how the violence has driven many residents to relocate to Gusau and nearby areas. “Once night falls, the entire community is gripped with fear, as sleeping here is extremely dangerous,” he stated.
Attempts to obtain comments from the police regarding the incidents were unsuccessful. This latest attack adds to a tragic cycle of violence in Zamfara State, where communities have endured such threats for nearly a decade.
