Mass exodus hits Zamfara communities as over 2,000 villagers flee homes over planned bandits’ reprisal attacks

No fewer than 2,000 residents of communities in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara state have fled their homes over fears of a reprisal attack by bandits.

Recall troops of Operation Fansan Yanma had carried out a major offensive on the camp of notorious bandit leader Ado Alero, in Tsafe Local Government Area, resulting in the killing of several fighters, including the kingpin’s son.

The spokesperson for Operation Fansan Yanma, Capt. David Adewusi confirmed the operation last Sunday, stating that the raid took place on Saturday.

Adewusi said the troops launched a heavy assault on the camp, leading to significant casualties among the bandits.

“There was a major attack on Alero’s camp last Saturday in Tsafe LGA of Zamfara State, which resulted in the death of several bandits,” he said.

The villagers reportedly abandoned their communities in the western part of the local government after security personnel vacated parts of the area, and afraid the Alero camp will carry out a reprisal attack.

“Some security personnel deployed to our villages vacated from their strategic points two days after neutralizing some bandits. Now we are afraid that the bandits may return,” one villager said.

Residents of Kunchin Kalgo and neighbouring villages were seen leaving with their belongings and moving towards the Tsafe local government headquarters.

Garba Panchase, Chairman of the local government confirmed the development, atressing that the villagers relocated to the local government headquarters.

Panchase said the movement was triggered by rumours, adding that even though members of the civilian JTF vacated the area for redeployment, conventional security personnel remained on ground.

His words: “The people flew their communities as a result of rumours initiated by people that do not mean well for the government.”

Some villagers, however, alleged that security forces left as bandits regrouped for reprisal attacks, adding that it has heightened fear among residents.