Gunmen have once again terrorized Zamfara State, abducting over 100 people from several villages near the state capital, Gusau. The attack, which took place in the Wanke area, saw victims including women, children, and the elderly, with many residents left in fear for their lives.

The Chief Imam of the Wanke community was also among those taken. This marks the second time the Imam has been abducted, with the first incident occurring while he was recovering from a leg injury. Local authorities have yet to release an official statement on the ongoing crisis.

A survivor of the attack recounted the harrowing experience in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service. “Over 50 people were taken near Sabon Layi, and another 50 near Dogon Hayi,” the survivor said. While the exact number of victims remains uncertain, the survivor described the chaotic situation as residents fled from the gunmen.

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“The bandits chased people like they were hunting animals,” the survivor added. “They pursued them on motorbikes, tracked women into their homes, and abducted them. Some victims were caught trying to escape and were dragged into the bush.”

The attackers hit multiple villages, including Gira, Ruwa Kusa, Dogon Hayi, and Gidan Kado, stealing motorcycles, farm produce, and other personal belongings, including smartphones. The bandits also looted local shops, further deepening the community’s fear and sense of insecurity.

While community members have informed authorities in Wanke, there has been no official response to the situation, leaving villagers feeling vulnerable. The region has faced a growing threat from these kidnappings and attacks over the past nine years, forcing many to flee to the safer parts of Gusau.

“Once night falls, fear grips everyone,” the survivor explained. “It’s become too dangerous to stay in these villages overnight.” Despite repeated attempts to contact police, there has been no response from officials on the matter, and the threat of further attacks remains a constant concern for local residents.