Tragedy struck in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State when bandits ambushed and killed six members of the Zamfara State Community Protection Guards (CPG), also known as Askarawa, along with four local vigilantes.
The attack happened on Saturday after a joint security operation led by the Nigerian Army successfully targeted criminals in Sunke Forest.
Governor Dauda Lawal revealed in a Facebook post on Sunday that security forces, including CPG operatives and Nigerian Army personnel, had raided the bandits’ hideouts, eliminating several criminals and seizing weapons.
However, as they were returning, gunmen ambushed them near Bagega, opening fire and causing the deaths of ten operatives—six CPG members and four vigilantes, also known as ‘Yan Sakai.’ Additionally, two CPG operatives and one vigilante are missing.
Dauda Lawal Reacts
Confirming the attack, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives.
In a statement written in Hausa and posted on Facebook, he mourned the victims and offered prayers for them.
He wrote, “I received the heartbreaking news that bandits ambushed some members of the Zamfara State Community Protection Guards in Anka Local Government.
“The incident followed a security operation where our forces, alongside the Nigerian Army, attacked the bandits’ hideouts, successfully neutralizing several of them and recovering weapons.”
Lawal added, “On their way back, they were attacked in Bagega, resulting in the killing of six CPG operatives and four vigilantes. Their burial was conducted on Sunday morning. Three individuals are still missing.
“Upon receiving this distressing news, I directed that immediate medical assistance be provided to the injured and relief materials be given to the families of those who lost their lives.”
He prayed for the deceased and called for divine intervention to end the security crisis in Zamfara State.
