The worsening Zamfara insecurity has taken another grim turn with the killing of a former Vice Chairman of Bukkuyyum Local Government Area, Hon. Mu’azu Muhammad Gwashi, by suspected bandits despite the payment of a ₦15 million ransom by his family.
Gwashi was reportedly abducted about five months ago and kept in captivity until he was killed last weekend. A family member, Muhammad Lawal Gwashi, confirmed the incident, explaining that the kidnappers initially demanded ₦30 million for his release. The family’s inability to raise the amount immediately prolonged his detention.
According to him, the abductors later agreed to accept ₦15 million, which the family eventually paid. However, even after collecting the money, the bandits allegedly insisted on the remaining ₦15 million, refusing to free Gwashi and later killing him.
The killing has heightened fear across communities in the area, with several residents reportedly fleeing their homes over concerns about safety as Zamfara insecurity continues to escalate.
Meanwhile, in a related security development, troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke, have recorded multiple successes against criminal activities in Taraba State.
In a statement issued by the Brigade’s Acting Spokesperson, Lt. Umar Muhammad, soldiers on December 6, 2025, thwarted an armed robbery operation along the Manya–Takum Road in Takum Local Government Area. The troops responded swiftly to a distress call, forcing the attackers to flee and abandon weapons, including an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and ammunition, thereby restoring movement on the busy route.
In another operation in Kufai Amadu, also in Takum, troops rescued two travellers who had been abducted while seeking directions on their way to Baissa in Kurmi Local Government Area. Two other victims managed to escape, while efforts to locate the remaining abducted persons and apprehend the perpetrators are ongoing.
Additionally, an intelligence-led raid carried out in Garin Sambo, Tau Village, in Ardo-Kola Local Government Area led to the arrest of two suspects and the recovery of arms, motorcycles, and mobile phones. The suspects were arrested over alleged illegal possession of weapons.
Commending the troops, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, praised their swift response and professionalism, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to sustained operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and improving security across the region.