Scores of bandits killed in Zamfara amid rising abduction concerns

A major security operation in Zamfara State has resulted in the deaths of dozens of bandits, bringing a measure of relief to affected communities, even as concerns persist over ongoing abductions in the state.

A resident of Dan Jibga in Tsafe Local Government Area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told DAILY POST that security forces, alongside hired vigilantes from Borno State, successfully repelled a large-scale attack on Kunchin Kalgo village on Saturday evening.
The clash continued until Sunday morning, April 5, 2026.

“The bandits, numbering about 400 and riding motorcycles, stormed the village intending to attack; during the clash, between 80 and 100 of them were neutralised, including Kachalla Iliya Sarki, a son of notorious bandit leader Ado Aleiro, and another top commander, Dogo Bete,” the source said.

Following the operation, normalcy is gradually returning, with residents expressing relief after a prolonged period of insecurity.

Despite this development, Amnesty International has condemned the recent wave of abductions in Zamfara, describing the situation as one that reflects inadequate attention by authorities.

The Country Director, Isah Sunusi, told DAILY POST that the ongoing violence across parts of Nigeria highlights a failure to respond decisively.
“The priority is to stop the killings people are suffering, enough is enough, whether in Plateau, Benue, Zamfara, Sokoto or Katsina. The government must end this violence,” he said..

Zamfara remains one of Nigeria’s most affected states by banditry and mass abductions, despite repeated assurances by authorities to curb the crisis.