The Zamfara State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of two councillors and a community Imam in the Tsauni area of Gusau, following a late-night attack by suspected gunmen on Wednesday.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Yazid Abubakar, disclosed the incident to journalists via telephone on Thursday. He explained that the councillors, representing Gidan Gona and Tsibiri wards in Maradun Local Government Area, as well as the Imam of the community, were seized in front of their homes around 7:00 pm, shortly after evening prayers.
The Tsauni community, which is located behind the Federal Road Safety Corps headquarters in Gusau, has in recent times sheltered internally displaced persons fleeing armed banditry from other parts of the state. The latest attack has therefore deepened fears among residents who already live under constant insecurity.
According to Abubakar, security operatives have been deployed to the area, and efforts are underway to secure the release of the abducted persons. He also appealed to members of the public to provide timely and useful information that could help the police curb further attacks.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Maradun Local Government, Sanusi Gamagiwa, confirmed the abduction in a separate phone interview. He revealed that six people were initially taken by the assailants, but three were later freed, leaving the councillors and the Imam still in captivity. He added that, as of the time of his statement, the abductors had not yet reached out to make any demands.
