No fewer than two suspected bandits have been killed by local security forces in Gusau Local Government Area of Zamfara State, leading to residents fleeing surrounding villages over fears of reprisal attacks.

Security analyst and counterinsurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, disclosed that security sources confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday, noting that the incident occurred on July 22 when hunters from Mada town laid an ambush for the bandits between Fegin Mahe, Chuna, Kanawa and Gundumau villages.

Quoting security sources, Zagazola said, “The ambush led to the death of two bandits, prompting fear among residents in the affected villages. Many fled their homes to Mada town for refuge, while others stormed the Zamfara State Government House in Gusau to protest and seek protection from reprisal attacks.

“The demonstrators carried placards demanding urgent government intervention and improved protection from marauding bandits”. Reacting to the protest, the Commissioner of Police, Zamfara State Command, Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, convened a meeting with community leaders from the affected areas and assured them of immediate and decisive action to secure the region.

As a temporary measure, he directed that the village heads be escorted back to Mada with an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), pending the full deployment of joint security forces to restore peace in the area.

The situation is now under control and is being closely monitored,” he said.

The guardian