Bandits abduct 39 elders on reconciliation mission

At least 39 elderly residents of Magamin Diddi community in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State have been abducted by bandits after a reconciliation meeting with a notorious gang leader turned deadly.

The victims were among a 50-member delegation from Magami/Faru ward who reportedly visited a bandit kingpin identified as Jammo in an effort to negotiate peace and improve security in the area.

Sources said the meeting ended in betrayal as the armed group allegedly detained the delegates shortly after their arrival.

Confirming the incident, Chairman of Maradun Local Government Area, Bello Dosara, said the community members embarked on the peace mission without the approval of the state government.

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According to him, the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal has consistently opposed negotiations with criminal groups operating in the state.

Dosara explained that although the bandits had blocked access to markets in the area, security personnel had been providing escorts to enable residents to carry out trading activities safely.

He expressed surprise that the villagers chose to engage directly with the armed group despite ongoing security support.

The council chairman disclosed that 11 members of the delegation had since regained their freedom, while 39 others remained in captivity.