In a brazen attack along the Gusau-Sokoto highway, bandits have once again plunged the region into chaos by kidnapping more than 26 travelers on Tuesday afternoon. The targeted abduction took place near Kwaren Kirya village in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where the criminals forcibly halted vehicles, including a Toyota 18-seater bus and a Volkswagen Golf, to seize passengers.
A local resident, speaking anonymously due to safety concerns, lamented the distressing frequency of such assaults, revealing that bandits have been blocking the road almost daily.
“As I’m speaking to you now, about 30 minutes ago, these bandits have blocked another section of the road, robbing passengers of an 18-seater bus and a Golf,” the source disclosed, highlighting the escalating threat faced by travelers.
Furthermore, apprehension looms over the village of Balge situated along the highway, with allegations suggesting it serves as a sanctuary for suspected bandits.
“There is a village called Balge, beyond Kwaren Kirya, where approximately 80% of inhabitants are believed to be affiliated with banditry,” the source disclosed, underscoring the urgent need for government intervention. “Although efforts were made to expel them, a significant number of residents remain associated with bandit activities. We implore the government to deploy military presence to secure the area.”
Amid mounting concerns, appeals have been directed towards authorities for heightened security measures, urging swift action to quell the surge in criminal activities.
As of now, official statements from police authorities in the state are awaited regarding the latest abduction incident, leaving residents and travelers anxiously awaiting updates on the situation’s developments.
