Tension gripped Zamfara State as a high-stakes security operation delivered a major breakthrough, with a feared bandit leader killed during a fierce clash with police operatives.
The incident unfolded in Lilo village, located in Wonaka District of Gusau Local Government Area. A police tactical team had been deployed following rising concerns over persistent bandit activities in the region.
During the operation, the bandit leader, identified as Alhaji Lawali Dandumbulu, was neutralised.
However, the situation leading up to the operation had been troubling. A local resident, who requested anonymity, described a recent attack that left the community shaken.
According to him, armed bandits stormed the village, killing one person and abducting nine others. In addition, one individual was injured during the raid.
He further revealed the scale of the earlier assault. The attackers reportedly arrived on more than 40 motorcycle.
“The bandits were engaged by the police Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) and were later overpowered, forcing them to run back into the bushes,” he said.
Moreover, the bandits were said to have stolen over 1,000 cattle. Shops and food storage areas were also broken into during the attack.
Meanwhile, police reinforcements intensified the operation. Another APC reportedly approached from the Wonoka-Auta and Tambalawa axis.
“They killed the bandits’ leader, Alhaji Lawali Dandumbulu, destroyed his camp and arrested four, but they later killed three of them,” he said.
Furthermore, the coordinated effort resulted in the destruction of the bandit leader’s hideout.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Yazid Abubakar, confirmed the success of the mission.
In addition, the police have called for continued public support. Residents have been urged to provide useful information that can help security agencies act swiftly.
However, despite this success, concerns remain about safety in rural communities. Many residents still fear possible reprisals or new attacks.
