Armed bandits raided the palace of the Emir of Zurmi, Alhaji Bello Muhammad Bunu, resulting in three fatalities and the abduction of several residents.
The attack, occurred around 10 pm on Wednesday, also targeted the the residence of former Military Administrator Colonel Bala Muhammad Mande (rtd).
According to witnesses, the bandits attempted to gain entry into the palace by firing at the entrance gate. Fortunately, the gate was locked, preventing their access. However, they proceeded to vandalize nearby structures, including a GSM mast, and set fire to two generators.
Sources revealed that the emir had been the primary target of the attack, as he had narrowly escaped a previous abduction attempt. Following the incident, he was quietly relocated to the state capital for safety.
In their failed attempt to breach the palace, the bandits turned their attention to the former military administrator’s residence, firing shots that damaged the property. During their retreat from the town, they inflicted casualties, killing three individuals and abducting several others.
A resident of the town who pleaded anonymity told Daily Trust: “We don’t know the number of people abducted because when the bandits started the shooting, residents ran into the bush for safety.
“No one dared stay back when the bandits were firing shots. The magnitude of the gunshots was scary. Hence, we all ran into the bush for our dear lives.
“We are calling on the government to provide enough soldiers to the town because the bandits may return again since they know the emir is in town.
“All they want is to abduct the emir, and we don’t know why they want to kidnap him.”
While the Commissioner of Police in Zamfara confirmed the attack and the abduction of one palace staff member, there are reports of additional abductions, including the Sarkin Gida of Zurmi Emirate and a local tea seller.
