Zamfara Police Chief Confirms Bandits Killed Seven Officers, Five Villagers

Zamfara Police Chief Confirms Bandits Killed Seven Officers, Five Villagers
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The Zamfara State Police Commissioner, Muhammed Shehu Dalijan, has confirmed the killing of 12 people, including seven policemen, in Magarya village, Zurmi Local Government Area.

According to LIB, armed bandits attacked the community early on Thursday, June 6, 2024.

Among the victims were a member of the Zamfara State Community Guards, also known as Askarawan Zamfara, and four villagers.

CP Dalijan confirmed the deaths to Daily Trust, stating that approximately 300 bandits stormed the village on motorcycles.

“They surrounded our men and opened fire, killing seven and injuring several others,” he said. “The bandits were not happy with our men who had prevented them from carrying out their heinous acts for over two years. Since the deployment of police to the area, the bandits had not had a chance to attack the village.”

The police commissioner announced that more officers would be deployed to the area.

A resident, Muhammad Yusuf, reported that the attack occurred at 5:10 am as people were preparing for the morning prayer. He said the bandits also burned two houses, a car, and many silos.

“The bandits also rustled three camels and some cows, sheep, and goats. However, they did not abduct anybody during the operation,” he said.

“When the bandits attacked, the villagers fled into the bush. When they returned, we discovered that 12 people, including seven mobile policemen, were killed. This is the fourth time bandits have attacked our village. The first attack happened two years after the deployment of a mobile police unit. They attacked three times before the deployment of security personnel.”

Another resident, Ibrahim Shehu, said many villagers had fled in fear of further attacks.

“The bandits warned of another attack, so the residents fled. Some moved to Gusau, the state capital, while others went to nearby towns,” he said. “We are terrified. Since they promised to come back, it is better for us to leave. Very few people remain in the village.”