Zamfara State is reeling from renewed violence as armed bandits killed a police operative and a respected community elder in separate attacks within the past week.
In Bukkuyum Local Government Area, a mobile police officer with Operation Restore Peace was fatally ambushed on Tuesday while traveling from Adabka village to Tibis village to purchase supplies. The officer, attached to Mopol 15, Ilorin, was confronted by armed assailants hiding in the surrounding bush. He was shot dead instantly, and his service riot gun was stolen.
Security sources confirmed that the officer’s body was recovered and taken to Adabka Primary Health Care Centre for documentation. Officials noted that the attack mirrors the operational methods of bandit groups affiliated with the Dan-Karama Gwaska and Dansadau networks, who are known for executing fast, precise ambushes before disappearing into nearby terrain.
In a separate incident in Tsafe Local Government Area, Malam Sabiu Mai Shayi Tsafe, a prominent community elder, was abducted alongside his son, Nura Sabi’u, from their farm. His body was later found on November 24 after his family reportedly paid a ransom. The fate of his son remains unknown.
Journalist Bakatsine described the community as “deeply shaken,” highlighting growing calls for stronger security measures to protect residents, particularly farmers who depend on their land for survival. “With attacks like this becoming more frequent, what future do farmers have in North West Nigeria?” he asked.
These incidents underscore the persistent threat of banditry in Zamfara, raising concerns about the safety of communities and the effectiveness of local security operations.