Banditry: Zamfara announces lockdown in 3 LGAs, suspends political activities

The Zamfara government has announced a total lockdown in Anka, Bukkuyum and Gummi LGAs of the state following the resurgence of bandit attacks.

In a statement on Friday, Ibrahim Dosara, commissioner for information, said nine major towns in the state will be on lockdown.

“The government announces a lockdown in nine major towns to stop the spate of the attacks on such communities in the affected areas,” the statement reads.

“These are Yarkofoji, Birnin Tudu, Rini, Gora Namaye, Janbako, Faru, Kaya, Boko and Mada towns.

“Government also announced the closing down of markets in Danjibga and Bagega as well as colony to Lambar Boko Road, Bakura to Lambar Damri Road and Mayanchi- Daki Takwas to Gummi Road.

“Others are the Daki Takwas to Zuru Road, Kucheri-Bawaganga – Wanke Road, Magami to Dangulbi Road and Gusau to Magami Road.

“The measures were taken to facilitate the efforts of security operatives in flushing out criminal elements in those areas.”

Bello Matawalle, Zamfara governor, also ordered the immediate suspension of political meetings and activities in the affected communities.

“Stakeholders invited for the Friday APC stakeholders’ meeting are hereby advised to hold on for a new date for the meeting,” the statement reads.

“Furthermore, government has suspended all political activities in the state till further notice.

“Political meetings and gatherings at individual residences are also banned with immediate effect.”

The state government said the decision is without prejudice to anyone, adding that it is intended to arrest insecurity before it gets out of control.

“Government is saddened and worried about the resurgence of the activities of bandits and the recent killings of some innocent people in Gusau, Tsafe, Gummi, Bukkuyum, Anka Bungudu, Maru, Maradun and Kaura Namoda local government areas,” the statement said.

“Government is also touched by the killings of some of our gallant security operatives who lost their lives in our defense.

“Government therefore, condole with the families of the victims of the bandits’ attacks and prayed for the repose of the departed soul.”

The state government directed security operatives to deal with those found violating the orders.