19 illegal miners killed 4 abducted as illicit alliance with bandits turned deadly in Zamfara
By: Zagazola Makama
What began as a fragile and opportunistic relationship between illegal miners and armed bandits in Zamfara State has turned deadly, culminating in the brutal killing of 19 people at a mining site in Gobirwa Chali Village, Bindin District of Maru Local Government Area.
Intelligence sources reliably informed Zagazola Makama that the armed bandits attacked the illegal mining site at about 6:00 p.m. on April 24, 2025, opening fire indiscriminately and leaving a trail of blood and anguish.
The troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA were immediately deployed to the area following the attack to stabilise the situation and pursue the perpetrators.
The sources said that there were dozens of illegal mining site which operated under alliances of convenience with bandits in the North West, in returns for monthly or weekly royalties.
The sources said “Bandits often provide protection for miners in exchange for hefty payments or shares in the proceeds. However, when disputes arise over money, loyalty, or perceived betrayal these relationships collapse into violence.
“Why do you think, no attack is happening on mining site belonging to some of the top shots and they have been engaging in these illegal mining for many years. Instead the bandits provide protection to their site ensuring that the operation is smooth,”he said.
Security analysts say the attack pointed to the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to dismantling illegal mining networks, which continue to serve as a lifeline for armed groups operating across the region.
“Illegal mining not only fuels violence but also finances further atrocities. It is a vicious cycle that must be broken if Zamfara and the entire North-West are to know peace,”said the security expert.
He added “The federal government has lifted the ban on mining activities in Zamfara state but who is going to regulate such activities to make sure the bandits or criminals don’t benefits. Also, have they solved the problem which resulted to the banning in the first place?, the answers is NO,”he said.
