Bandits kidnap 6 travellers on Kontagora–Yauri highway

Armed bandits struck again on Wednesday morning, abducting several travellers along the Kontagora–Yauri highway, a major route connecting Niger and Kebbi states.

According to reports by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the incident occurred when a commercial Toyota Corolla transporting six passengers from Kontagora in Niger State to Yauri in Kebbi State was ambushed by gunmen.

All six occupants of the vehicle were reportedly whisked away into the forest by the attackers, who blocked the highway and halted traffic during the assault.

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.