39 people kidnapped during meeting with parents of bandit leader

At least 39 people from Magamin Diddi in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State were kidnapped by armed bandits. This happened during a community meeting with the parents of a suspected bandit leader, according to the police.

Yazid Abubakar, the spokesperson for the state police command, shared this information in a statement on Monday. He said the police have started investigations to rescue the victims.

The statement revealed that a report came from the Divisional Police Officer of Maradun Division. The District Head of Magamin Diddi submitted a letter on Monday around 11:00 AM. This letter reported a mass abduction that took place on June 7, 2026, around 3:00 PM.

The report mentioned that 47 residents from Magamin Diddi gathered and went to Fadama Forest. They aimed to meet the parents of a notorious bandit leader named Jimo Smally. This meeting was supposed to be for reconciliation and peaceful talks.

"But while the meeting was happening, the bandit leader reportedly showed up with his gang. They forcefully took 39 people from the group to an unknown location," the statement said.

The police command stated that they have launched immediate actions to find and rescue the victims. They are working hard to ensure their safe return.

"After receiving the report, the Zamfara State Police Command quickly started efforts to find the victims and bring them back safely. Operational assets have been deployed, and security operatives are using available intelligence to locate the abducted individuals," the statement explained.

"The command assures the public that every effort is being made to rescue the victims unharmed. They also promise that those responsible will face justice," the statement concluded.