Matawalle helpless as bandits murder 15 in Zamfara

Fifteen people were killed and 11 others kidnapped in Zamfara State on Thursday while a security meeting involving the state governor, Bello Matawalle, traditional rulers, security agents and religious leaders was ongoing at the Government House.

Matawalle, who broke the sad news to the gathering, said, “As I am speaking to you right now, I’ve received text messages that 13 people were killed in Bingi and 11 others were kidnapped in Nahuche, all in the Bungudu Local Government Area.

“I also received another message just now that some people are staging a demonstration between Anka and Jangebe.

“Another report reaching me right now indicated that the Yansakai have slaughtered two Fulani herdsmen in Maradun Local Government.”

The governor expressed surprise on how the bandits always attacked and killed people whenever he travelled out of the state.

“I wonder what is happening, but I am not surprised because I know that there are some politicians who are always happy to hear that some people are killed in Zamfara.

“Let me send a strong warning to them, that as from today, I will take a very drastic action against those politicians who are sabotaging our security efforts.”

He directed the Commissioner of Police to summon the Emir of Maradun, Alhaji Garba Tambari; and the Sarkin Arewan Maradun, Alhaji Bala, to explain how the two Fulani herdsmen were slaughtered.

Matawalle stressed that he had done everything within his powers to end banditry through dialogue, lamenting, however, that “many people are against this peace process.”