Amnesty International has strongly condemned the deadly attack on Dutsin Dan Hajiya village in Zamfara State, describing it as one of the worst incidents in a region that has endured years of violent assaults.
In a statement posted on its X handle on Monday, the organisation said that more bodies were still being discovered days after the Thursday night attack, while families continue searching for loved ones who remain missing. Many of the injured are reportedly receiving treatment at Anka General Hospital.
Amnesty International highlighted that the attack underscores the deteriorating security situation in Zamfara, which has experienced repeated violent incidents, particularly in rural communities, since 2012.
The organisation also noted that previous military operations in the state have failed to halt the killings.
“Previous military interventions have failed to end the killings in the rural areas of Zamfara. The Nigerian authorities have repeatedly claimed to be tackling the situation, but the mounting death toll tells a different story,” Amnesty stated.
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The group emphasized that residents of affected communities live in constant fear, with villagers reporting feelings of helplessness and the need to constantly brace for attacks.
Amnesty International urged authorities to take immediate action to end the violence and ensure accountability.
“These killings must end immediately, and those suspected of criminal responsibility must be brought to justice,” the organisation said.
The attack occurred on Thursday night in Dutsin Dan Hajiya, located in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where bandits reportedly killed at least 50 residents, marking yet another tragic episode in the state’s ongoing security crisis.
The organisation’s statement reflects growing concerns over rural insecurity in Nigeria and the need for effective and sustained measures to protect vulnerable communities from recurring attacks.