Communities in Zamfara State have been thrown into turmoil following a series of violent attacks between Thursday and Friday, resulting in multiple deaths, injuries, and mass displacement.
Suspected bandits carried out the attacks in Talata-Mafara, Bukkuyum, and Kaura-Namoda Local Government Areas (LGAs), according to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who shared the information on X.
In Tudun-Biri village, Talata-Mafara LGA, gunmen invaded a Fulani settlement around 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, setting houses on fire.
One person lost their life, while others fled to safety. Witnesses reported that the attackers arrived in large numbers, burning huts and destroying property, forcing many residents to seek refuge in nearby communities.
Later that evening, around 6:32 p.m., another attack was launched on a Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) camp in Gurusu, Bukkuyum LGA. The vigilantes engaged the assailants in a fierce gunfight.
During the clash, three CJTF members and three community residents were killed, while one CJTF operative was abducted, and four others suffered gunshot wounds. Despite the casualties, the attackers eventually retreated into the forest. However, tension remains high, with fears of further violence.
At midnight on March 21, armed men raided Gidan Fulani village in Kaura-Namoda LGA, firing warning shots before making away with an unspecified number of cattle.
Security forces are currently working to track down the attackers and recover the stolen livestock.
In response to the incidents, authorities have increased surveillance in the affected areas, while local vigilante groups have intensified patrols to prevent further attacks.
As of now, the Zamfara State Police Command has not issued an official statement regarding the incidents.