At least 30 armed bandits have been killed in an ambush carried out by local vigilante members in the Dansadau district of Maru Local Government Area, Zamfara State.

The operation, which occurred around 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, was confirmed by intelligence sources quoted by counter-terrorism expert Zagazola Makama. The bandits were reportedly on their way to launch an attack on a nearby village when they were intercepted by members of the local vigilante group known as Yansakai, who had strategically laid in wait on the outskirts of the town.

"A fierce gun battle ensued, leading to the death of the suspected attackers," Makama reported.

During the confrontation, the vigilantes also recovered 16 motorcycles allegedly used by the bandits.

In a separate but related development, security personnel discovered the body of a local Community Protection Guard (CPG) member, Ashiru Dawa, who had previously been abducted by suspected bandits. His remains were found around 6:00 a.m. in the Gidan Kano area on the same day.

According to reports, the body was taken to a nearby hospital for an autopsy before being released to his family for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

Security experts note that these incidents underscore the escalating security challenges in Zamfara State, where local vigilante groups have increasingly resorted to self-defense amid relentless attacks by armed groups.

Efforts to restore peace and security in the state continue, with authorities and community-led initiatives working in tandem to combat the persistent threat of banditry.