A fresh wave of violence has hit Yankuzo community in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where bandits carried out a reprisal attack following a recent military offensive against their camps.
During the assault, the attackers set fire to the palace of the district head, Babangida Hamza, while also looting properties across the community.
The armed group, reportedly led by a figure identified as Mai Rasha, stormed the area on Tuesday afternoon. Witnesses said they fired sporadically as they advanced, creating panic among residents before targeting the traditional ruler’s residence.
“They rode in shooting and went straight to my palace and burnt it,” Hamza told journalists, explaining that he was not at home when the incident occurred. He added that his family members had been safely evacuated before the attackers arrived.
Hamza disclosed that he has been repeatedly singled out by armed groups operating in the region. According to him, persistent threats had previously forced him to relocate, and he was abducted about six months ago over alleged connections with security agencies.
Residents said the attackers remained in the community for several hours, reportedly until about 3:30 p.m., during which they carried out coordinated looting operations. Food supplies and valuables were taken from shops and private homes, leaving many residents counting their losses.
The attack is believed to be a retaliation for recent military strikes targeting bandit hideouts in the area, highlighting the continuing cycle of violence affecting communities in Zamfara State.
