30 killed as bandits ambush travellers on Zamfara highway

At least 30 people have reportedly been killed following a deadly ambush by bandits along the Magami–Dansadau highway in Zamfara State, in what has been described as one of the deadliest attacks on the route in 2026.

The attack occurred on Sunday evening when heavily armed assailants reportedly targeted travellers and commuters moving along the busy highway between Magami and Gusau.

Confirming the incident, the spokesman of the Zamfara Community Protection Guard, Malam Abubakar Gummi, said the attackers carried out a coordinated assault, opening fire on moving vehicles and passengers.

Malam Abubakar confirmed, “21 civilians, 8 local hunters, and one community protection guard were killed in the assault.”

According to Gummi, security operatives and community guards engaged the bandits in a gun duel following the attack. He explained that during the exchange, scores of bandits were neutralised, although he did not give an exact figure for the militants’ casualties.

Despite ongoing military and community-led operations, the Magami–Dansadau highway has long remained a flashpoint for banditry in Zamfara South, with frequent attacks on travellers, farmers and traders.

The route links several rural communities to Gusau, the state capital, making it a vital but dangerous corridor for movement and commerce.

The victims’ bodies, according to security sources, have been recovered and taken to nearby health facilities, while survivors are receiving treatment for varying degrees of injuries sustained during the ambush.

The Zamfara State Government is yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of press time.