BREAKING: Panic In Zamfara Community As Bandits Demand ₦8m Ransom After Death of Gang Leader

Fear and uncertainty have enveloped Kaya village in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State following fresh threats from armed bandits, who have reportedly imposed an ₦8 million levy on the community.

The demand is believed to be in retaliation for the killing of Isuhu Buzu, a feared bandit commander, who was eliminated during a recent joint operation involving the Zamfara State Community Protection Guard (ZCPG) and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

Villagers have firmly rejected claims linking them to Buzu’s death, insisting they had no role in the operation. They described the financial demand as an act of collective punishment against innocent residents already battered by years of violence, poverty, and displacement.

The ultimatum has sparked widespread panic, with locals expressing deep concern over possible revenge attacks, including killings, arson, and destruction of farmlands, should the bandits’ demand go unmet.

In response, traditional and community leaders have made an urgent call to the Zamfara State Government and security agencies to swiftly reinforce security in Kaya and surrounding areas. They are demanding increased troop deployment, constant patrols, and proactive measures to prevent a fresh outbreak of violence.

The leaders stressed that civilians should not be made to pay the price for successful security operations, warning that any delay in action could plunge the area into another humanitarian emergency.