Bandits kidnap seven students in Zamfara polytechnic attack

Seven students from the Federal Polytechnic in Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State, were kidnapped by suspected bandits at their off-campus housing in the Low-Cost area.

Hon. Mannir Haidara Kaura, the Chairman of Kaura Namoda LGA, confirmed the incident and stated that security forces had launched rescue operations.

“Following the incident, security teams are actively working to secure the safe return of the kidnapped students,” he said.

Student Ibrahim Ahmad reported that one of the victims managed to escape, leaving three male and three female students still taken. The Concerned Citizens of Kaura Namoda, a local group, criticized the escalating insecurity, linking it to the gang led by bandit leader Kachalla Bello Dansadiya.

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They referenced previous kidnappings, including two lecturers held for more than two months despite a ransom, as well as other abductions of residents and a district head near a military facility.

“They are still reportedly held in a well-known bandit camp near Dajin Yamma, yet no rescue missions have been executed. Where are the fighter jets and armored vehicles?” they asked.

Police spokesperson DSP Yazid Abubakar confirmed the attack, saying efforts to rescue the hostages had been increased. He mentioned that while one student escaped, six remain captive, emphasizing that the school’s security measures prevented any breach.

“The campus has been reinforced with adequate security personnel, making it very difficult for bandits to access,” he stated.

He noted that a student may have inadvertently left a door open during the night, which allowed the attackers to enter. Security forces from the VCRU and Operation Fansan Yamma are actively engaged in rescue efforts.