Zamfara police stop bandit attack and IED threat

The Zamfara State Police have stopped a bandit attack on security officers in Zurmi. They also avoided a suspected bomb threat along the Gurusu, Gwashi Road in Bukkuyum Local Government Area.

This information was shared in a statement from the police spokesperson, Yazid Abubakar, on Tuesday.

Abubakar explained that the incident took place on August 12, 2026. Police sent personnel to protect a tree-planting event at the Zurmi Muslims’ Praying Ground along Rukudawa Road.

While the exercise was happening, armed bandits attacked the security personnel. The officers quickly took cover and fought back, which made the attackers retreat into a nearby forest.

"Evidence at the scene, including significant traces of blood from the attackers’ position, indicated that some of the bandits may have sustained gunshot injuries. The bandits were believed to have withdrawn with the bodies of their dead colleagues," he said.

Abubakar confirmed that no security officers or civilians were killed in the attack.

In another event on the same day, a suspected landmine or improvised explosive device exploded along the Gurusu, Gwashi Road in Bukkuyum Local Government Area. This explosion caused panic among people living there and those using the road.

He stated that no lives were lost and no one was hurt in the explosion. The police sent their Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, along with personnel from the Violence Crime Response Unit, to the scene.

"The EOD team conducted a thorough sweep of the area and made the scene safe for commuters and other road users," he added.

Abubakar mentioned that joint security patrols continue along the route and nearby areas to prevent further attacks, spot potential explosive threats, and protect residents and road users.

He called on the public to stay alert and report any suspicious movements, abandoned items, or other security issues to the nearest police station.