Armed bandits have kidnapped the traditional ruler of Yankuzo, Alhaji Babangida Kogo, in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, just hours after the Nigerian Air Force carried out an airstrike that reportedly killed scores of bandits in a nearby forest.
The monarch was taken on Tuesday evening near Mararraba while fleeing his community, fearing a reprisal attack by surviving bandits. The incident has raised fresh concerns over the security situation in the area.
According to Zagazola Makama, a security-focused publication, the attackers were a large group riding on more than 10 motorcycles. They ambushed the monarch’s convoy near an abandoned farmland once owned by the late Alhaji Malami Yandoto.
“They left others behind and whisked the district head away,” a source told Zagazola. “They knew exactly who they were after.”
The kidnapping came not long after a Nigerian Air Force jet targeted what was believed to be a major gathering of armed bandits between Yankuzo and Munhaye. Intelligence suggested the group was assembled for a wedding or a similar event.
“The impact was massive, charred bodies and destroyed motorcycles littered the area after the strike,” a security source said. “We believe many of the attendees were loyal to kingpins operating across the Tsafe–Zurmi axis.”
The airstrike was based on surveillance and credible intelligence that tracked the movement of the armed group. The strike killed dozens, while many others were wounded.
Fear spread quickly through surrounding communities after the attack. Residents, fearing retaliation, began fleeing.
“We knew they would strike back. That’s why our district head was leaving,” a resident of Yankuzo said. “Unfortunately, he ran into them before reaching safety.”
Local vigilante groups have started a search for the monarch. Military ground forces are also in the area to try and prevent further attacks.
“We’re combing nearby forests, but the terrain and movement patterns of these criminals make it difficult,” a vigilante leader said.
The incident is being interpreted as a show of defiance by bandits under increasing pressure from military operations in Zamfara and across the North West.
“This is not just a kidnapping—it’s a message,” a security analyst said. “These groups are feeling the heat, and they’re lashing out in ways they believe will provoke fear and weaken community resistance.”
Residents say that despite recent military action, they do not believe the situation will improve without a permanent security presence.
“As long as these forests remain ungoverned, they will always regroup,” said a Yankuzo resident. “We need lasting security, not just occasional strikes.”
