Gunmen suspected to be bandits have kidnapped seven students from Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda in Zamfara State. They struck at an off-campus dwelling on the town's outskirts, in the Low-Cost neighbourhood.
One student managed to slip away during the raid. Six others remain missing, according to those familiar with the abduction.
Mannir Haidara Kaura, the local government chairman, confirmed the attack to journalists on Wednesday. He noted that security forces had begun operations aimed at freeing the captives.
"Security teams are actively working to bring back the abducted students safely," Kaura told reporters. The operation was already underway when he made the statement.
Ibrahim Ahmad, a student at the institution, revealed details of the kidnapping. He said one victim escaped while three male and three female students were taken.
A community group called Concerned Citizens of Kaura Namoda has raised the alarm over escalating attacks. They blame a bandit leader, Kachalla Bello Dansadiya, and his network for the violence.
The group pointed to past incidents involving abductions that remained unresolved. In one case, two senior lecturers were held for over two months before ransom was paid.
They also cited the kidnapping of three residents and a district head taken from near a military installation. All these victims are allegedly held at a bandit encampment around Dajin Yamma.
"Why haven't rescue missions been launched?" the group demanded in a statement. "Where are the fighter jets and armoured vehicles?" they questioned.
Zamfara police have also confirmed the abduction and promised swift action. DSP Yazid Abubakar, the command's spokesperson, told newsmen the operation is now in full swing.
He explained how the bandits gained entry to the residence that night. A student had gone outside, he said, leaving the door open behind him.
"One of them stepped out to urinate and didn't lock up," Abubakar recounted. "Bandits who were in the area seized the opportunity and rushed in."
Campus security remains intact, according to police. Abubakar insisted the polytechnic itself is well fortified with enough armed personnel.
"The school compound is heavily secured, making it nearly impossible for attackers to get in," he noted. Only the off-campus accommodation was vulnerable.
Police have mobilized their Violent Crime Response Unit for the rescue. Operation Fansan Yamma troops are also involved in the coordinated effort.
"Our personnel and military partners are collaborating to retrieve all the students," Abubakar said. Both teams have intensified search efforts in surrounding areas.
