Zamfara mosque attack: 40 worshippers kidnapped during dawn prayers

Gunmen have abducted at least 40 worshippers during early morning prayers at a mosque in Gidan Turbe village, Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The assault occurred around 5:30 a.m. on Monday, when armed men surrounded the mosque and forced the congregants into the nearby forests along the Gohori axis, according to local sources who spoke to security analyst Zagazola Makama.

Residents say the attack has thrown the community into shock, coming just a day after reports of peace deals between traditional leaders and armed groups in parts of the North West.

Analysts warn that the incident underscores the fragility of ongoing peace initiatives. Despite negotiations in some states, heavily armed groups continue to carry out violent raids across the region.

“The bandits have no command, structure or control. You can negotiate with bandits in Katsina while they continue to strike in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi and Kaduna,” one local source said.

The abduction adds to a series of mass kidnappings and violent attacks that have plagued Zamfara and neighbouring states, fuelling fears about the government’s ability to contain worsening insecurity.