Bandits Unleash Terror in Northwest Nigeria: Mass Abductions in Zamfara

In a major attack in Northwest Nigeria, bandits abducted over 150 people, predominantly women and children, from villages in Zamfara state. Security forces are actively pursuing the gunmen, while rescue operations are underway. The region faces ongoing issues with bandit violence and mass kidnappings for ransom.

Nigerian security forces are urgently pursuing gunmen responsible for a significant abduction in Zamfara state. Villages in the northwest were raided by bandits, who kidnapped over 150 residents, primarily women and children.

The attack occurred in the Bukkuyum area's Kurfa Danya and Kurfan Magaji villages. Villagers fled as gunmen opened fire on vehicles and homes, leading to the area becoming largely deserted. Local council chairman Umar Abubakar Faru estimates the number of abducted individuals to exceed 150.

Zamfara police have confirmed the attack but continue to verify the total number of those abducted. A joint operation involving police, military, and other security agencies is actively pursuing the attackers while rescue efforts continue. The region has long struggled with bandit violence and mass kidnappings for ransom.

(With inputs from agencies.)