Gunmen attacked Gamdum Mallam village in Adafka, Bukkuyum, Zamfara State on Saturday, killing at least two people and abducting over 100 others, primarily women and children. The assault occurred around midday, with assailants, referred to as bandits, arriving on motorbikes and firing indiscriminately.
Village head Muhammadu Mai Anguwa confirmed that the attackers took the captives toward the Makakari forest. Resident Huzaifa Isa described the chaotic scene, noting how the gunmen split into two groups—one focused on abduction while the other set up a roadblock to hinder escape attempts. Zamfara State has become a notorious hotspot for banditry, with 4,722 abductions reported between July 2024 and June 2025, according to SBM Intelligence.
Authorities have not yet issued a statement regarding rescue operations or efforts to recover the kidnapped individuals. The recent surge in violence has raised concerns among local communities, as similar situations have unfolded in the region over the past years.
The Nigerian government continues to face challenges in addressing the persistent banditry that plagues the northwest, exacerbating fears for safety among residents. As previously reported, these attacks significantly impact community security and stability.