A shocking incident has unfolded in Zamfara State, where bandits have once again struck, resulting in the death of Sheikh Ahmad Rufa’i, the Chief Imam of the Central Mosque in Keita village, Tsafe Local Government Area.
The attack took place right after the night congregational prayer.
This heartbreaking event follows closely on the heels of another grim incident three weeks ago, which saw the murder of Imam Abubakar Hassan Mada, the Chief Imam of the Central Mosque in Mada, Gusau LGA.
Residents, including Ibrahim Musa Keita, reported spotting the bandits initially along the Kwarin Gano-Keita Road.
Although warnings were issued to the residents about the bandits’ presence, they still proceeded to invade the village.
After their unsuccessful attempt to abduct travelers on the road, they turned their focus towards Keita village, where they killed the chief imam and kidnapped numerous individuals, including women.
Sharing his account, Ibrahim said, “Prior to the attack, there were reports of bandit movements along Kwarin Gano-Keita Road. They were sighted, but there was uncertainty about them targeting our village.”
He further added, “Initially, their intention seemed to be abducting people on the Keita-Kwarin Gano Road. However, failing to do so, they advanced towards Keita village, where they tragically ended the life of our chief imam and took several individuals, including women, hostage.
“We are yet to confirm the exact number of abductees, as some residents escaped into the woods and are still missing,” he continued.
In a separate incident, two individuals were abducted in Magazu village, Tsafe LGA, during the early hours of Tuesday.
According to Yusuf Ibrahim, a resident, the bandits stormed the village around 3 am, firing shots indiscriminately.
Most of the residents fled their homes in panic.
Aminu Kwalfada from Kwalfada village expressed his distress, revealing that the pervasive fear instigated by bandits has compelled residents to cease using loudspeakers in mosques during prayers.
Unfortunately, ASP. Abubakar Yazid, the Police Public Relations Officer for Zamfara State Command, was unable to provide additional details at the time of reporting but assured to share information as soon as it is available.