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Bandits abduct over 100 people, including women, children, and the elderly,  in a fresh attack on communities in Zamfara State, Nigeria.

In the latest incident, bandits struck in the Wanke area, near the state capital Gusau. The attack saw at least 100 villagers taken hostage by the assailants. Among those abducted was the community’s Chief Imam, who had been kidnapped previously and was receiving medical treatment for a leg injury. This marks the second time the Chief Imam has been abducted by the criminals, according to local sources.

Wave of terror in Zamfara

The recent abduction in Wanke is part of a growing trend of violent attacks by bandits in the region. In the last few years, Zamfara has become notorious for frequent kidnappings, armed robberies, and cattle rustling by these criminals. Communities in the state have been left vulnerable, as the government and security forces struggle to control the rising violence.

According to a survivor who spoke to BBC Hausa, the bandits pursued villagers through several areas, including Sabon Layi and Dogon Hayi, where more than 50 people were taken. The survivor described the terrifying scene, saying the bandits hunted their victims as if they were animals, riding on motorbikes and chasing people into their homes. “They tracked women inside their houses and abducted them,” the survivor recounted. “Some were intercepted while trying to escape and were taken into the bush.”

Widespread panic as bandits abduct villagers

As panic spread across the communities, many residents fled in fear of further attacks. The bandits not only abducted villagers but also looted their homes, stealing motorcycles, farm produce, and personal belongings, including smartphones. Several shops were also raided for provisions.

The local authorities and the police have yet to comment on the incident, and efforts to reach officials for a response have been unsuccessful. The survivors’ accounts highlight the helplessness felt by the affected communities, many of whom have been living in constant fear for years.

A long-standing crisis

The latest wave of abductions underscores the deepening security crisis in Zamfara State. For nearly nine years, the residents of Zamfara have been under siege by bandits, who frequently attack villages and terrorize communities. Many locals have fled to Gusau and other towns, seeking refuge from the ongoing violence.

In some areas, there is no longer any livestock, and people live in constant dread of attacks. “Once night falls, everyone is filled with fear,” the survivor added. “Staying in these communities overnight has become extremely dangerous.”

The situation remains dire, and calls for action to end the terror in Zamfara are growing louder. Yet, as authorities remain silent, the residents of the state continue to suffer at the hands of these ruthless bandits.

By Eddy Okechukwu

Mr Eddy Okechukwu is a dynamic young journalist whose interest covers crime reporting and politics. He has eight years of uninterrupted practice spanning some major online publications in Nigeria, Okechukwu specifically has bias for Law issues and the courts.

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