Bandits Attack Mosque in Birnin Yaro Village, Zamfara, Abduct Worshippers
Bandits have reportedly attacked a mosque in Birnin Yaro village, located in the Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, abducting several worshippers.
Security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, revealed that the assault was led by Bello Turji, a notorious bandit kingpin, and his armed men. The attack occurred during the Isha prayers around 7:30 PM on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
The attackers allegedly forced the victims into the forest, although the exact number of those abducted remains unclear. In addition to the abductions, it was reported that the bandits killed a shopkeeper in the area.
Sources suggest that Turji may be using the kidnapped individuals as human shields to protect his hideout from potential Nigerian military operations, specifically Operation FANSAN YANMMA.
This incident is part of a growing trend of kidnappings for ransom in northern Nigeria. Just last week, at least 46 people, including women and children, were kidnapped in a raid on Gana town, also in Zamfara. Gunmen on motorbikes attacked the town, firing indiscriminately and setting homes and businesses ablaze.
In December, at least 43 individuals were abducted in Kakidawa, Gidan Goga district, Maradun LGA, where gunmen conducted house-to-house searches, capturing women and children unable to flee.
