Gunmen have launched a devastating attack on Yankuzo community in Zamfara State, looting properties and setting the palace of the District Head, Babangida Hamza, ablaze. The assault is believed to be a revenge attack following a military offensive on bandit hideouts earlier in the day.
Details of the Attack
The bandits, reportedly led by one Mai Rasha, stormed the Tsafe-area community early Tuesday morning, shooting sporadically before targeting the traditional ruler's residence. Hamza confirmed the incident, stating, "The armed bandits came, shooting, and came straight to my palace and burnt the palace." He added that he was away in Tsafe town during the attack, and his family members were safely evacuated. Casualty figures remain unclear.
Looting and Duration
Residents reported that the gunmen remained in the community for hours, until about 3:30 p.m., carting away foodstuffs and valuables from several shops in a coordinated looting spree. The attack was described as a direct reprisal for a military operation targeting terrorist enclaves near the community earlier that day.
Background of Tensions
Community members explained that the bandits have consistently viewed them as targets. Many had previously relocated due to threats, and villagers were abducted about six months ago over alleged links to security agencies. The latest attack underscores rising insecurity in the North-West, with another district head reportedly abducted days earlier in Kaura Namoda.
Efforts to reach the spokesperson of the Zamfara State Police Command for comment were unsuccessful as of press time.
