Anxiety as suspected gunmen journeys to Zamfara from Niger State

Panic gripped motorists and commuters on the Kontagora–Minna highway in Niger State on Sunday afternoon after nearly 300 suspected bandits, mounted on motorcycles and wielding sophisticated weapons, were seen traversing the road between Kampanin Bobby and Wamba in Mariga Local Government Area.

Eyewitnesses reported that the heavily armed group, allegedly originating from Zamfara State, moved without resistance from any security forces as they advanced toward Mashegu Local Government Area.

The unexpected sighting caused travellers to abandon their journeys and flee for safety, fearing potential violence.

The incident has sparked fresh concerns over the continued vulnerability of communities in Niger State and the apparent lack of a prompt security response in high-risk areas.

A driver noted the absence of security presence during the incident.

The chairman of Mariga Local Government, Abbas Kasuwa Garba, when contacted, confirmed the incident and revealed that joint security teams have been dispatched to the area to protect the communities.

He also disclosed that two vigilantes from Wamba who confronted the bandits were killed, and one injured person is undergoing treatment.

It was further gathered that military officers stationed at Beri camp have been mobilised to confront the criminals.

Efforts to reach the state police command through the Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, were not successful as of the time of filing this report.