At least nine farmers have been killed and several others are missing after bandits attacked farmlands in the Gidan Danjumma community, located in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Attack Details
A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons told journalists that the gunmen had earlier warned villagers not to cultivate their farmlands during the 2026 wet farming season. However, the farmers disregarded the warning and continued their farming activities, prompting the bandits to launch a deadly assault.
According to the source, nine farmers were killed instantly, while many others fled into the forest to save their lives. The bandits pursued the fleeing victims on motorcycles, firing sporadically.
Casualties and Injuries
The death toll may rise, as some of those who escaped sustained gunshot wounds, and several others remain unaccounted for after running into the forest. The source added that only nine deaths have been confirmed so far, and the fate of many who fled is still unknown.
Warnings and Threats
The attackers continued to issue warnings against farming, threatening severe consequences for anyone who defies their orders.
Security Response
Security forces, including troops of the Nigerian Army, officers of the Nigeria Police Force, personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and members of the Zamfara State Community Protection Guards (CPG), have been deployed to the affected community to restore peace and secure the area.
Authorities had not issued an official statement as of the time of this report.
