At least 39 residents of Magamin Diddi in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State have been abducted after visiting a bandits’ camp for what was described as a reconciliation and peace-building engagement.
The Zamfara State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying the victims were seized by armed bandits in the Fadama Forest on Sunday afternoon during a visit aimed at fostering peaceful relations.
According to police spokesperson, Yazid Abubakar, the district head of Magamin Diddi reported that the residents had travelled to the camp to meet the parents of a notorious bandit kingpin as part of ongoing reconciliation efforts.
However, the mission took a tragic turn when the visitors were allegedly held captive by the armed group.
The mass abduction has sparked fresh concerns over the dangers surrounding informal peace initiatives with criminal groups operating in parts of the North-West.
Security agencies have since launched efforts to secure the release of the victims and track down those responsible for the abduction.
The latest incident underscores the persistent security challenges facing Zamfara, where communities continue to grapple with kidnappings, bandit attacks, and other forms of violent crime despite ongoing military and security operations.
About The Author
