In yet another brazen attack, terrorists have struck along the Gusau-Sokoto highway, abducting over 26 travellers on Tuesday afternoon. The incident occurred near Kwaren Kirya village, situated within the Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
According to eyewitnesses, the terrorists blocked the road and targeted passengers from a Toyota 18-seater bus and a Volkswagen Golf vehicle. This marks a disturbing trend as locals report that such blockades have become a daily occurrence, raising significant concerns for the safety of commuters in the region.
A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity due to security reasons, highlighted the gravity of the situation: “As I’m talking to you now, about 30 minutes ago, these bandits have blocked another side of the road. They cleared the passengers of an 18-seater bus and a golf, the situation is worrisome because it has become an everyday thing for these people to be blocking the road.”
The source further expressed apprehension about the village of Balge along the highway, alleging that a significant portion of its residents are suspected to be associated with the bandits. “There is a village when you pass that Kwaren Kirya called Balge, about 80% of settlers in that village are bandits,” the source disclosed. “We just need government to help us and station military around the area.”
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The plea for government intervention underscores the urgency of the situation, as locals appeal for increased security measures to curb the activities of criminal elements operating in the area.
The recurring attacks along the Gusau-Sokoto highway not only pose a direct threat to the lives and property of travellers but also disrupt essential transportation routes, impacting both commerce and daily commutes for residents in the region.
Efforts to address the escalating security challenges in Zamfara State and other affected areas remain a focal point for the government, as authorities continue to grapple with the persistent threat posed by banditry and other forms of criminality.
The abduction of travellers along major highways underscores the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to tackle insecurity, involving not only law enforcement agencies but also community engagement and socio-economic initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of criminality.#Terrorists
