17 Die As Gunmen Open Fire At Farmers In Zamfara
Written by News Desk on June 12, 2026
A member of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Hon. Maharazu Salisu, has called for a more aggressive military response against bandit groups following a deadly attack that claimed the lives of seventeen farmers in Goron Namaye district of Maradun Local Government Area.
The lawmaker made the appeal after heavily armed bandits reportedly invaded farmlands in the area on Friday, opening fire on farmers who were carrying out seasonal agricultural activities. The attack left seventeen people dead, while ten others sustained serious injuries.
Salisu said the scale of the assault exposed the challenges facing security operatives in the area. According to him, security personnel were unable to repel the attackers immediately due to their large numbers, allowing the bandits to inflict significant casualties before reinforcements arrived.
He urged both the federal and Zamfara State governments to review their current security approach, insisting that sustained military offensives should be directed at known bandit hideouts rather than relying solely on responses after attacks occur. He argued that such a strategy would be more effective in restoring lasting peace across affected communities.
The incident has sparked concern among local authorities and residents who fear its impact on agricultural activities and food production. Chairman of Maradun Local Government Council, Sanusi Ahmed Dosara, described the attack as tragic and said security agencies were promptly alerted to prevent further violence and protect farming communities during the 2026 planting season.
At the Talata Mafara General Hospital, medical personnel have reportedly been struggling to cope with the influx of injured victims. Families and community members were also seen mourning the loss of loved ones as efforts continued to provide treatment for the wounded and arrange the burial of those killed in the attack.
