At least 39 residents of Magamin Diddi village in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State have been abducted by armed bandits during a reconciliation effort aimed at restoring peace in the community.
The victims, mostly elders, had reportedly travelled to Fadama Forest to meet with the parents of a known bandit leader, in an attempt to negotiate peace and improve relations between both sides.
However, during the meeting, the armed group allegedly arrived and abducted dozens of participants, taking them to an unknown location.
Local authorities confirmed the incident, describing it as unfortunate, while noting that the reconciliation attempt was carried out without official approval from the government.
According to the local council chairman, the initiative was community-driven, even though both state and local authorities have consistently discouraged negotiations with armed groups.
He added that some of the abducted victims were later released to deliver messages back to the community, while efforts continue to secure the release of those still in captivity.
Security authorities, including the police, have launched a rescue operation following reports that 39 of the 47 participants were taken away during the meeting.
The police command said operational teams have been deployed and intelligence efforts are ongoing to track the victims and ensure their safe rescue.
Authorities assured residents that every effort is being made to recover the abducted persons and bring those responsible to justice.
