Bandits Kidnap 50 Elders in Zamfara During Peace Mission

In Zamfara State, bandits kidnapped 50 elders who were on a reconciliation mission. The chairman of Maradun Local Government Area, Hon Bello Dosara, confirmed the incident, stating that the elders decided to meet with a bandit kingpin without government clearance.

This meeting was intended to negotiate peace, but it resulted in their abduction. Out of the 50 kidnapped, 11 individuals were released, leaving 39 still held captive.

The bandits are demanding N24 million and three seized rifles in exchange for the remaining hostages. Hon Husaini Jammo expressed concerns over the ongoing insecurity and the risks associated with such reconciliation efforts.

He noted that previous military operations against bandits have resulted in casualties among security personnel. The situation remains tense, with calls for government intervention to enhance security in the region.