An unspecified number of worshippers were reportedly kidnapped by notorious bandit Bello Turji during an attack on a mosque in Birnin Yaro village, Zamfara State.
The incident occurred on Friday night during Isha prayers when Turji and his armed men stormed the mosque, disrupting the congregation and abducting worshippers.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama stated that Turji may be using the abducted individuals as human shields against an anticipated attack by Nigerian troops.
Efforts to confirm the incident with the Zamfara State police command were unsuccessful.
This incident follows a similar attack earlier this year in Gana town, where suspected bandits kidnapped at least 46 people, including women and children. The attackers, armed with motorcycles, terrorized the community for hours, setting homes ablaze before retreating with their captives.
These attacks highlight the ongoing security challenges faced by communities in Zamfara State, where banditry and other forms of violence remain prevalent.
