In a harrowing incident on Friday, armed bandits launched a daring attack on the Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, abducting more than 100 individuals, predominantly women and children.
The assailants targeted four villages—Mutumji, Sabongari Mahuta, Kwanar Dutsi, and Unguwar Kawo—all falling under the jurisdiction of the Maru Local Government Area.
The motive behind this egregious act was reportedly the communities’ failure to comply with levies imposed by the bandits.
Sources from Mutumji revealed that the bandits descended upon the community at approximately 8 pm, shortly after evening prayers, instigating chaos by firing shots indiscriminately.
The terrified residents were compelled to flee in search of safety, leaving their homes behind.
According to eyewitness accounts, Damina, a notorious bandit kingpin in the area, had levied a staggering N110 million “harvesting levy” on these communities.
The bandit leader had given them a two-week ultimatum to meet this exorbitant demand under the threat of severe consequences.
The breakdown of the levies imposed on the villages includes N50 million on Mutumji, N30 million on Kwanar Dutsi, N20 million on Sabongari Mahuta, and N10 million on Unguwar Kawo.
The sheer audacity and brutality of this extortionate demand underscore the alarming rise in banditry and criminal activities in the region.
The aftermath of the attack has left these communities grappling with the traumatic consequences of mass abductions.
Families are anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones, unsure of their safety and well-being in the hands of the merciless bandits.
This incident not only exposes the vulnerability of the local residents but also raises urgent questions about the security infrastructure in Zamfara State.
The Nigerian authorities are facing mounting pressure to address the escalating security challenges in the region and protect the lives and property of the citizens.
Incidents like these not only threaten the immediate safety of the affected communities but also contribute to a pervasive atmosphere of fear and instability.
As the nation grapples with these challenges, the need for a comprehensive and effective strategy to counter banditry and secure vulnerable regions becomes increasingly evident.
The abduction of over 100 residents in Zamfara serves as a stark reminder of the urgent action required to restore peace and security to communities that find themselves at the mercy of criminal elements.
