Bandits kidnap passengers along Niger–Kebbi highway

Armed bandits have abducted several travellers on the Kontagora–Yauri highway, a busy route linking Niger and Kebbi states.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the attack occurred on Wednesday morning when a commercial Toyota Corolla carrying six passengers from Kontagora in Niger State to Yauri, Kebbi State, ran into the gunmen. All six occupants were reportedly taken captive.

After seizing the passengers, the assailants proceeded to attack several communities in Magama Local Government Area of Niger State. They raided Libale, Iteri, and Isana villages, where they kidnapped two residents identified as Oro and Jamilu. The attackers also set a vehicle on fire and rustled an unspecified number of cattle.

One person was said to have sustained gunshot injuries during the raid.

Security sources said a joint team of soldiers and local vigilantes has been mobilised to the area and is tracking the criminals with the aim of rescuing the victims.

Earlier this month, at least 30 people were abducted when bandits invaded Zamfarawa village in Zugu district, Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State. During that attack, the gunmen reportedly shot indiscriminately to scare residents before whisking away 30 villagers to an unknown destination.