At least 50 elders from Magamin Diddi community in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State have been abducted by suspected bandits while on a reconciliation mission aimed at restoring peace in the area.
The victims were reportedly part of a community delegation that travelled to meet a notorious bandit leader, identified as Jammo, following claims that the armed group was willing to embrace peace and end attacks on local communities. However, the peace initiative took a dramatic turn when the delegation was allegedly seized by the bandits upon arrival.
Confirming the incident, Maradun Local Government Chairman, Bello Dosara, said the reconciliation effort was undertaken without the approval of the Zamfara State Government, which has consistently maintained a policy against negotiating with bandits.
According to local sources, some members of the delegation were later released, while dozens remain in captivity. Reports indicate that the bandit leader is demanding compensation linked to firearms allegedly seized during previous confrontations between his group and local security operatives.
The latest abduction underscores the persistent security challenges facing Zamfara State, where banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on rural communities continue despite ongoing military operations and government efforts to curb insecurity.
Security agencies have yet to announce any rescue operation or official update on the fate of the remaining captives as of the time of filing this report. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.