Armed bandits have reportedly abducted more than 16 residents, including women, children, and the elderly, from Sabo village in Murai ward, Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to local sources, the attack occurred on Wednesday, November 6, 2025, when the gunmen stormed the community despite heightened surveillance by local vigilantes.
“The bandits entered the community without notice. The vigilantes worked hard to repel the attack but were overpowered due to the large number of assailants,”
said Aliyu Saidu, the district head of Sado.
He confirmed that at least 16 people had been kidnapped, adding that the number could rise as search efforts continue.
Another resident, Alhaji Ibrahim Shehu Sado, recounted the shock of learning about the incident.
“I received a call about the attack and immediately thought of my friend Nasiru, who had just left my shop the previous night. When I called, there was no response — he and his wife were among those taken,” he said.
Community members said this was the second major attack on Sado in less than a year. The first, they recalled, led to the abduction of the village head, Aliyu Sa’idu, who has since relocated to Morai following the traumatic experience.
Residents were seen gathered at the village square, anxiously awaiting possible phone calls from the kidnappers. Many displaced families are reportedly seeking refuge in nearby settlements.
“We are asking the authorities and security agencies to help us trace and rescue them,”
said Umar Rabiu, whose elder brother was among those abducted.
The latest assault comes just weeks after armed bandits abducted six butchers and livestock traders along the Gusau–Dansadau road, shooting one victim and leaving another critically injured.
Locals say the repeated attacks have deepened fear and uncertainty across the region, where banditry continues to undermine safety and rural livelihoods.
