A security analyst, Dr. Yahuza Getso, has warned that Nigeria’s security situation could deteriorate further if authorities fail to take decisive action against bandit groups, following the killing of at least 26 residents in Sauna community, Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Speaking during an interview with Trust TV on Thursday, Getso said the attack occurred after residents resisted an attempt by armed bandits to pass through the community with stolen cattle.
According to him, the gunmen launched a deadly assault on farmers and other residents after encountering resistance.
“They carted away the animals and attempted to pass through Sauna community, but residents resisted. As a result, they began killing anyone they found on the farms,” he said.
Getso explained that some victims were returning from their farms with their livestock when the attackers intercepted them, stole their cattle and killed them. Others, he said, were chased down while attempting to flee and were also murdered.
He disclosed that community leaders had confirmed that 26 people lost their lives in the attack.
“The total number confirmed by the community leadership is 26. I have spoken with more than 40 members of the community, including leaders and prominent individuals, and they all confirmed the casualty figure,” he stated.
The security expert further alleged that residents had repeatedly alerted security agencies about a bandit camp located near Sauna community, particularly during the rainy season, but no concrete action was taken.
According to him, reports were submitted to the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, other security formations in the area, and the Zamfara State Government.
“They reported the matter to the DSS, the police, the army and all security formations operating at the local government level. Senior government officials were also informed,” Getso said.
He maintained that the existence of the bandit camp was well known to both residents and security agencies, stressing that the failure to dismantle it contributed to the deadly attack.
Getso called on the government to urgently review its security strategy, warning that the evolving tactics of armed groups pose a growing threat to lives and communities across the country.
“We need to face reality and reorganise ourselves before it is too late,” he warned.
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