Bandits abduct eight farmers in Kebbi
Bandits have kidnapped eight farmers in a fresh attack on Gandun Wasagu community in Wasagu Ward, Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Confirming the incident to Punch, the Chairman of Danko Wasagu LGA, Hussaini Aliyu Bena, said the armed men struck on Saturday afternoon, November 22, while the victims were working on their farms.
“Eight of our farmers were taken, and one person was shot. The injured victim is currently receiving treatment at the Wasagu General Hospital. We are working closely with security agencies to secure the safe return of those abducted,” he said.
He added that the incident was promptly reported to the military stationed in the area for ongoing operations, and troops have since launched a pursuit to rescue the victims unharmed.
Community members say the gunmen, suspected to have crossed in from neighbouring Zamfara State, operated for several minutes before escaping with their victims.
One resident, who identified himself as Sani, who also spoke with the publication described the situation as frightening.
“People are afraid to go back to the farms now. This is the second time in less than two weeks. We don’t know what will happen next if nothing is done,” he said.
Security analyst Bakatsine, who first drew public attention to the incident on his X (formerly Twitter) account, said the pattern of attacks shows an increasingly fragile security environment.
“The situation in Wasagu is becoming desperate. We need urgent, coordinated action before these communities are completely overwhelmed,” he warned.