Armed bandits have abducted about 40 Muslim worshippers during early morning prayers at Gidan Turbe village mosque in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.Community sources report that the assailants struck around 5:30 a.m. on Monday, surrounding the mosque before whisking away the worshippers at gunpoint.
The captives were reportedly taken into forests around the Gohori axis of Tsafe.
The attack has plunged the rural community into confusion and despair, coming barely a day after reports of a “peace deal” involving local leaders and armed groups in Katsina and neighbouring states.
A source said that the incident highlights the lack of unified command among bandits, noting that while negotiations may occur in some areas, attacks continue unabated in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Kaduna.
Meanwhile, troops of Operation Fasin Yamma (OPFY) foiled several terrorist attacks across Katsina, Kebbi, and Zamfara States.
In Katsina, troops of 17 Brigade FOB Mabai ambushed terrorists near Gatakawa village, recovering a motorcycle and a mobile phone.
In Danmusa, soldiers repelled an ambush on Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) operatives, though one officer later died from gunshot wounds.
In Kebbi, troops of 8 Division Garrison engaged terrorists at Ungushi village, Kebbe LGA, forcing them to flee. A civilian injured in the attack was evacuated to Kebbe General Hospital.
In Augie LGA, troops and NSCDC personnel also responded to an incident in Tunga Dade, where terrorists stole a motorcycle before escaping.
In Zamfara, troops of 1 Brigade Team 7 on patrol at Mararaba Kyeware came under ambush near Kuka village.
Two soldiers sustained injuries and were evacuated to Tsafe General Hospital for treatment before being moved to 1 Brigade Medical Centre.
Military operations in the region remain ongoing, even as talks with some armed groups are being explored to reduce violence.
