In a tragic incident that underscores the persistent insecurity in Nigeria’s northwest region, armed bandits killed eight people and abducted several others during an attack on a trailer loaded with food items at Matashayi Zaki community, along the Dansadau/Gusau road in Zamfara State.
Daily Mentor gathered that the bandits struck at about 6:00 pm on Tuesday, shortly after military escorts assigned to protect the trailer had left the area. Eyewitnesses revealed that the military personnel had departed because the trailer delayed their movement, leaving it vulnerable to the attack.
The Dansadau/Gusau road has become a hotspot for bandit activities, making it nearly impossible for vehicles to travel without military escorts. However, Daily Mentor reports that the escorts often refuse to wait for vehicles that are not ready to move at their scheduled time, leaving travelers exposed to danger.
Residents also disclosed that military personnel charge exorbitant fees to escort vehicles along the route, citing the high-risk nature of the road. One villager, Ishiaku Muhammad, expressed frustration over the situation, stating, “We have no option because we are afraid of the bandits. The army authorities claimed they installed a military station at Dansadau, but there has been no positive effect. We are losing a lot due to the money we pay to the military escorts for security.”
The Federal Government had previously established a military station in Dansadau town to curb bandit activities and secure the road. However, Daily Mentor reports that the presence of security forces has not significantly reduced the frequency or intensity of attacks. Bandits continue to operate with impunity, terrorizing communities and disrupting economic activities in the region.
The latest attack has further heightened fears among residents, who are calling for more effective measures to address the insecurity. The abduction of several individuals during the raid adds to the growing number of people held captive by bandits in Zamfara and neighboring states.
As the nation grapples with this escalating crisis, Daily Mentor News Online will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on efforts to restore peace and security in the region.
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