Zamfara state government says residents of Ruwan Tofa community in Maru local government killed several bandits during a fierce encounter, contrary to reports that bandits abducted 60 people in the community.
Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Gusau, Dr. Bashir Muhammad Maru, gave the clarification during a press conference in Gusau.
This clarification is coming after reports of abduction of at least 60 people from Ruwa Tofaby bandits on Wednesday.
Giving the account of what happened, Bashir said: “A group of suspected armed bandits arrived Tungar Baushe on Tuesday 2nd, March 2021, this week and sought to fuel, as they move towards Ruwan Tofa, the people prepared defense of their territory and in the ensuing melee a large number of the bandits were killed and others escaped with different degree of injuries. Two people from Ruwan Tofa sustained gunshot injuries.
“The following day the bandits returned to Tungar Baushe, and attacked the village and burnt down two vehicles loaded with grains and other valuables but no life was lost. Unfortunately, they abducted a number of persons including women and children.
“Most of the abductees have since returned safely to their village. Concerted efforts are well underway by the Zamfara State Police Command surveillance unit to ascertain the exact number of those still in captivity.”
