Armed bandits operating under the leadership of a notorious kingpin, Danisuhu, have reportedly imposed N172.7 million levy on 25 villages in Tsafe West LGA of Zamfara State.
The bandits also demanded for contributions like bags of soybeans while also threatening the residents with violence.
Giving a breakdown of the levy “per village,” security analyst, Zagazola Makama, said: ‘The targeted villages and their respective levies include:Gijinzama: ₦8.5M, Dakolo: ₦5M + 20 bags of soybeans, Gunja: ₦7M, Kauyen Kane: ₦5M, Kurar Mota: ₦6M, Sabon Garin Bakin Gulbi: ₦2.5M, Kibari: ₦3M.
“Karda: ₦5M, Daga Ciki: ₦3M, Biya: ₦5M, Barebari: ₦6M, Kauyen Magaji: ₦7M, Kwaren Maisaje: ₦10M, Magazawa: ₦10M, Maciya: ₦5M, Unguwar Danhalima: ₦5M, Unguwar Rogo: ₦5M, Katanga: ₦5M, Magazu: ₦5M, Sungawa: ₦15M, Rakyabu: ₦15M, Yalwa: ₦2.7M, Tsageru: ₦5M, Gidan Anne: ₦7M, Kunchin Kalgo: ₦20M.”
Makama also reported that several residents of these villages have abandoned their homes, farmlands and livelihoods over the fear of violent reprisals for failing to meet the demands.
“The situation is dire.
“The inability to pay these levies often results in brutal attacks by the bandits, leaving the residents with no option but to flee,” Makama added.