Bandits Abduct 40 Worshippers in Zamfara Mosque as Peace Deal Collapses

By Diafa Doubra,

Armed bandits struck in Zamfara State on Tuesday, abducting no fewer than 40 worshippers from a mosque in Tsafe Local Government Area.

According to eyewitnesses, the attackers stormed the mosque during evening prayers, shooting sporadically to scare residents before whisking away the victims. The incident has heightened fear in the community, which has faced repeated assaults despite ongoing peace efforts.

Reports indicate that the latest attack comes amid the collapse of a fragile peace deal earlier initiated between the state government and bandit groups. Locals say the breakdown of dialogue has emboldened the criminals, who now target vulnerable communities with renewed violence.

Security operatives have since intensified patrols in the area, while families of the victims are anxiously awaiting updates on possible rescue efforts.

Community leaders have appealed to both state and federal authorities to act swiftly, warning that continued insecurity could displace more residents and worsen the humanitarian situation in Zamfara.