Suspected bandits raided Malikawa, a village in Gidan Goga district of Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State around midday yesterday, forcing women and children to run for cover.

The attackers reportedly fired sporadic shots, causing tension in the community.

The incident happened two months after 30 people were killed in a raid on Malikawa. Amnesty International tweeted about the latest attack, lamenting the plight of residents.

According to Amnesty International “an attack is currently ongoing at Malikawa village in Gidan Goga district of Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Gunmen entered the village and started shooting.

“In May, at least 30 persons were killed in an attack by armed bandits in Malikawa village, which is currently under attack of heavily-armed bandits.

“The ongoing attack in Malikawa village is coming five days after the armed bandits sacked seven villages under Gidan Goga district of Zamfara State. People in this area perpetually live in fear of bandits who wantonly kill or kidnap for ransom.

“Zamfara has recorded a series of attacks in the last two years. Last week, Sa’idu Dansadau, ex-senator representing Zamfara Central, said bandits have killed about 3,000 people in the state in the last two years.

“Dansadau said over N1.2 billion had been paid as ransom to for the release of residents abducted during the period.”