Bandits Abduct 39 During Reconciliation Meeting in Zamfara

On June 7, 2026, bandits ambushed a reconciliation meeting in Fadama Forest, Zamfara State, abducting 39 participants. The meeting was organized by Musa Sani and aimed to broker peace and secure access to farmland for residents.

The notorious bandit leader, identified as Jimo Smalli, and his gang disrupted the meeting, resulting in the mass abduction. Eleven other attendees were released.

Bello Dosara, the chairman of Maradun Local Government Area, stated that local and state governments were not informed about the reconciliation process. He emphasized the need to avoid negotiations with armed groups, as Governor Dauda Lawal opposes such reconciliations.

The Zamfara State Police Command confirmed the incident and reported that rescue operations were underway, with efforts to ensure the safe return of the victims.