One of the survivors, Alhaji Muhammad, currently receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Gusau, recounted the harrowing ordeal. He sustained gunshot wounds while attempting to escape the assailants.
A Narrow Escape
Muhammad explained that the bandits blocked the road at three strategic points, firing sporadically at vehicles.
“We were driving to Nasarawa-Burkullu early Friday morning around 9:00 a.m. when suddenly, bandits emerged from the roadside bushes, shooting directly at us. Despite sustaining two bullet wounds—one on my elbow and another on my leg—I kept driving to save my passengers,” he said.
His car was carrying ten members of the same family, and he chose to endure the pain rather than stop.
“At Gidan Manya, another group of bandits targeted my tires, but I managed to keep moving. They chased us on motorcycles, firing continuously. My younger brother, Alhaji Rabi’u, urged me to stop, but I refused.”
Mass Kidnappings and Abandoned Vehicles
Muhammad added that the attackers also ambushed people near Gadar Manya, forcing many to abandon their motorcycles and belongings while fleeing for safety.
“The bandits seized all passengers from three cars and a firewood truck driver. We saw four empty vehicles left behind.”
Military Intervention
After receiving initial treatment at Nasarawa-Burkullu Hospital, Muhammad was referred to FMC Gusau. En route, under military escort, they encountered another bandit operation.
“The bandits had kidnapped a petroleum tanker driver and were lying in wait for more victims. Thankfully, soldiers engaged them, forcing the attackers to flee, abandoning their motorcycles and rifles. It was shocking—right in front of us, the bandits confronted the troops, but the soldiers overpowered them.”
The incident highlights the rising insecurity in Zamfara State, where armed groups continue to terrorize travelers and residents.