Gunmen kidnap 15 in Zamfara

The Speaker, Zamfara state House of Assembly, Sanusi Rikiji, said yesterday that 15 persons were kidnapped by unknown gunmen on Saturday in Maradun local government area of the state.
Mr. Rikiji told journalists in Gusau on Sunday that the security situation in the state called for serious review.
He recalled the ugly incidences recorded in the last two days in Zurmi local government area where bandits took over three districts comprising over 18 villages and towns.
“As I said yesterday in Zurmi, the issue of insecurity in this state requires general study system review to tackle the prolonged security challenges facing the state.
“Security agencies should do more and more to deploy enough security personnel in Zamfara.
We need permanent security stations in the affected area.
“We thank the immediate intervention of the federal government to this issue.
As I am speaking now, the troops and security personnel have been deployed to the affected areas in Zurmi.
“They have started restoring normalcy in the area.
We appeal to the people of the area to remain calm as government in collaboration with security agencies is working to maintain peace and stability in the areas,’’ he said.
The speaker also thanked the Emir of Zurmi, Abubakar Atiku, over his concern and commitment to the protection of his people.
Also on Sunday, President Muhammadu Buhari announced the deployment of a 1000-strong security force to Zamfara to check the worsening security situation there.
The security force includes the army, air force, police and civil defence.
The president also ordered the deployment of two fighter jets to the state, which will operate from a base in nearby Katsina state.
Hundreds of people have been killed in the past year by bandits in Zamfara.
The attackers also often burn villages and kidnap people for ransom.