Bandits set ablaze district head’s palace in Zamfara
Reprisal Attack Engulfs Yankuzo Community in Zamfara State
Yankuzo, Zamfara State — Bandits launched a reprisal attack on the Yankuzo community in the Tsafe Local Government Area, setting fire to the residence of district head Babangida Hamza and looting properties shortly after a military operation targeted their hideouts.
The assault, reportedly led by an individual known as Mai Rasha, occurred Tuesday afternoon. Gunmen entered the community, firing weapons as they approached the traditional ruler’s residence before igniting it in flames.
“They rode in shooting and went straight to my palace and burnt it,” Hamza stated in an interview, confirming he was not at home during the incident. He added that his family had been safely evacuated prior to the attack.
Hamza emphasized that he has been a repeated target of armed groups in the area. Previously, he was forced to relocate due to threats and was abducted approximately six months ago amid claims of his connections to security forces.
Residents reported that the attackers occupied the neighborhood for several hours, up until around 3:30 p.m., conducting a coordinated looting spree and removing food supplies and valuables from shops and homes.
