ABUJA, Jan 7 – Armed attackers on motorbikes kidnapped at least 46 people, including women and children, during a late-night raid on Gana town in Nigeria’s northwestern Zamfara State, local residents and a traditional leader reported on Tuesday.
The assault occurred around 10 p.m. GMT on Sunday, with the attackers firing indiscriminately and setting fire to homes and businesses, according to witnesses. Efforts to contact Zamfara police spokesperson Yazid Abubakar for comment were unsuccessful.
Northwest Nigeria has seen a surge in attacks by armed groups, locally referred to as bandits, who carry out kidnappings for ransom and other violent crimes.
Alhaji Garba Haure, a traditional leader in Gana, said government security forces arrived during the attack and prevented further destruction. “We have 46 men, women, and children abducted so far, and the count is ongoing,” Haure said.
Bala Harauma, a resident, said the actual number of those abducted might be higher. Six people reportedly escaped as the captors moved their hostages early Monday morning. Another resident, Yusuf Mohammed, said the attackers burned numerous homes and silos containing food supplies.
Last month, hostages from a similar attack in the state were released after ransom payments, according to local residents.
