At least 50 people were killed after gunmen raided Tungan Dutse village in Zamfara State, according to local officials. The attack lasted from early evening into the early hours of the morning, forcing residents to flee as violence spread across the area.
Hamisu A. Faru, a lawmaker representing Bukkuyum South, said the attackers moved from one community to another, leaving destruction behind. Several women and children were also abducted, although authorities are still working to confirm how many people were taken.
Residents described scenes of fear and chaos. One survivor said family members were killed while trying to escape. Homes were burned, and entire communities were left traumatized.
The attack is part of a wider security crisis affecting northern Nigeria. Armed groups often described locally as “bandits” have carried out repeated raids, kidnappings for ransom, and deadly assaults across rural areas. These attacks have displaced thousands of people and placed increasing pressure on the government to restore safety.
Local resident Abdullahi Sani said villagers had warned authorities after spotting large numbers of armed men traveling on motorcycles before the assault. According to him, security forces were contacted, but the attack still happened.
Police in Zamfara did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the incident. Community leaders and local officials continue to count the dead and identify those who remain missing.
