Armed bandits have imposed an N8 million levy on Kaya village in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State, threatening residents in what locals say is a retaliatory action.
Community sources said the levy followed the killing of a notorious bandit leader during a recent security operation, a development that has thrown the village into fear and uncertainty.
Residents said that the threat was issued on Tuesday, with the armed group warning the community to pay the imposed amount.
The levy is reportedly linked to the death of Kachalla Isuhu Buzu, a known bandit commander who was killed during a joint operation involving the Zamfara State Community Protection Guard (ZCPG) and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
According to a Katsina-based security expert, Malam Bakatsine, residents have denied any involvement in the operation that led to Buzu’s death, maintaining that the community had no connection to the incident.
They described the levy as an act of collective punishment against innocent civilians.
The development has heightened tension in Kaya village, with residents expressing fears of possible violent reprisals, loss of lives, and destruction of property should the demand remain unmet.
Community leaders have appealed to the Zamfara State Government and security agencies to urgently intervene by deploying additional security personnel, intensifying patrols, and securing Kaya village and neighbouring communities to prevent further violence.
They warned that civilians should not be made to bear the consequences of counterterrorism operations, stressing the need for proactive measures to stop armed groups from carrying out revenge attacks.
(SAHARA REPORTERS)
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