Gunmen have killed two local government officials in Zamfara State. The attack happened on the road between Jangebe and Talata Mafara.
The victims were the Director of Planning and a ward councillor. They died following an abduction on May 18, 2026.
Five people were travelling together when bandits ambushed them. An Area Revenue Officer was also taken in the attack.
Talata Mafara Local Government Chairman Yahaya Yari confirmed the killings. He described the incident as deeply tragic.
According to Yari, officials tried hard to negotiate their release. But the bandits refused to discuss ransom payments.
"Anyone abducted from Jangebe will be killed," the bandits told authorities. In his words, the attackers made clear they wanted no negotiations.
A Jangebe resident close to the victims shared more details. He spoke anonymously about what happened during the ambush.
Five people occupied the revenue officer's vehicle that day. Attackers struck at a well-known danger spot on the route.
The village head resisted capture and was shot immediately. Gunfire also struck the Area Revenue Officer in his hand.
Bandits kidnapped Planning Director Jamilu Sani from the vehicle. Two other passengers managed to escape into nearby bushes.
Security in the area continues deteriorating rapidly, the source noted. Travel beyond three kilometres from Jangebe is increasingly perilous.
He explained that one safer route existed previously. But even the Mayanchi–Anka–Gummi corridor has become unsafe now.
"Once you leave Jangebe, you're basically on your own," he lamented. The zone has become a haven for armed groups.
Police spokesman DSP Yazid Abubakar verified the attack occurred. Zamfara State Police Command acknowledged the killings to reporters.
This marks another deadly incident in the troubled region. Criminal gangs continue targeting government officials and travellers alike.
