Terrorists
A teacher at Federal Government College (FGC), Anka, in Zamfara State, Mustapha Yahaya Maru (also referred to as Malam Mustapha Yahaya Maru), was killed by armed bandits (referred to as terrorists in some reports) despite his family paying a ransom for his release.
Details of the Incident:
Abduction: Maru was kidnapped earlier in May 2026 while travelling to Anka in Zamfara State. He and several other passengers were in a vehicle that was intercepted by armed attackers on the road.
Ransom Payment: The kidnappers contacted his family and demanded a ransom (reports from social media and secondary sources mention around ₦4 million). The family made intense efforts to raise the money despite it being a significant financial strain. They eventually paid the agreed amount in hopes of securing his freedom.
Killing: Instead of releasing him, the bandits k!lled Maru on Tuesday (May 26, 2026). The family was reportedly informed of his death.
His death has plunged his family and the Maru community into deep mourning. It has also intensified fears and concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Zamfara State and the northwest region.
Zamfara State continues to face recurring attacks by armed bandits, including road ambushes, abductions, and k!llings. For example:
On May 18, 2026, bandits k!lled a driver, abducted two local government officials (Jamilu Sani, Director of Planning in Talata Mafara LGA, and councillor Muslimu Habibu), and injured another (Samaila Ladan) along Tashar Lawali Road in Talata Mafara LGA.
This incident gives insights into a troubling pattern in the region where bandits abduct people for ransom but sometimes k!ll victims even after payment. It highlights ongoing challenges with insecurity affecting education, travel, and daily life in parts of Zamfara. There has been no detailed official statement from authorities mentioned in initial reports.
The story is developing and based primarily on reports from Sahara Reporters and related local accounts as of May 27, 2026. Families and communities in affected areas often express frustration over the lack of effective security and government intervention in curbing banditry.
Read also:
Bandits Kidnap Bus-load of Pupils, Head Teacher on their Way to School (video)
Terrorists K!ll Another Kidnapped School Teacher After Collecting Ransom
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