Zamfara State has been plagued by recurring violent attacks, kidnappings, and killings, often attributed to armed bandits, leaving residents in a state of fear and insecurity.
Tension is mounting in the Tsauni community of Gusau following the abduction of two local councillors and an Imam by suspected armed bandits on Wednesday night.
The Zamfara State Police Command confirmed the incident on Thursday, stating that the victims were kidnapped outside their homes shortly after the evening prayer around 7:00 p.m.
Speaking to journalists by phone, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Yazid Abubakar, said:
> “The two councillors are from Gidan Gona and Tsibiri wards in Maradun Local Government Area. Alongside them, the Imam of Tsauni was also taken by the gunmen.”
Tsauni community, which lies behind the Zamfara Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Gusau, has become a refuge for many displaced by ongoing bandit attacks across the state.
Authorities say security personnel have since been deployed to the area in a bid to track the assailants and secure the victims’ release.
> “We are actively working to rescue the abducted persons. We urge residents to remain calm and share any useful information with law enforcement,” Abubakar added.
Meanwhile, Maradun LGA Chairman, Sanusi Gamagiwa, provided further details on the incident, revealing that the attackers initially seized six individuals during the raid.
> “Three of the captives were released, but they held onto the two councillors and the Imam,” he said. “As of now, no contact has been made by the kidnappers regarding their demands.”
The motive behind the abduction remains unclear, but the incident adds to the growing list of security challenges in Zamfara State, where communities continue to grapple with relentless attacks by armed groups.
Residents are calling for increased surveillance and swift intervention, fearing further escalations if perpetrators continue to act with immunity.
NAN
