Wave of Kidnappings Unsettles Northwest Nigeria

In a wave of violence and unrest, at least 45 women and children have been abducted in northwest Nigeria as gunmen mounted a daring overnight raid on five villages. This incident marks the second mass kidnapping within days in Zamfara state. Witnesses from the area report that the assailants returned to Sabongarin Damri, launching attacks on nearby villages including Sade, Tungar Tsalle, Tungar Sodangi, and Tungar Musa Dogo, with assaults persisting until dawn.

The ordeal underscores a troubling escalation of violence, following a similar attack just days prior where 70 people were taken. The so-called 'bandits', a term commonly used locally to describe these armed groups, have killed hundreds and abducted thousands in this tumultuous region. Security forces who responded to Monday's attack managed to neutralize three attackers, but the bandits escaped with hostages and rustled cattle. Civilian casualties were noted, though the fatality count remains unconfirmed.

Residents are gripped with fear as these violent acts continue, with some choosing to flee their homes. The urgency of the situation was compounded by a separate Boko Haram militia attack in northeastern Borno state's Kennari village on Monday, which resulted in the abduction of at least 15 people and the killing of one villager. The assailants have demanded a ransom of 30 million naira for the captives' release.

(With inputs from agencies.)