Key facts
- Dozens of villagers were abducted by armed bandits in Zamfara state, Nigeria.
- The abductions occurred during a meeting intended for peace negotiations.
- Authorities confirmed 39 people were seized, though some residents believe the number is higher.
- The bandits are reportedly demanding a ransom of 125 million naira.
- Security forces are actively working on a rescue operation.
Armed bandits in north-west Nigeria abducted dozens of villagers who had been invited to a meeting concerning potential peace negotiations. The incident, which occurred on Sunday near Magamin Diddi village in Zamfara state, highlights the deteriorating security situation in the region.
According to local police, 39 people were seized. However, some residents and officials suggest the number could be as high as 50. The victims were reportedly meeting with relatives of a bandit leader in an effort to broker peace and alleviate community restrictions. The police spokesperson, Yazid Abubakar, stated that the bandit kingpin arrived with his gang during the meeting and forcibly took the villagers to an unknown location.