Armed gunmen kidnapped at least 46 people, including women and children, in a raid on Gana town in Nigeria’s Zamfara state, news reports said.
The attack occurred late Sunday evening when gunmen on motorbikes opened fire on the community, setting fire to homes and businesses.
The assailants were only prevented from burning the entire town by the intervention of local security forces, according to locals.
Six captives managed to escape as the gang moved the hostages early Monday. The actual number of kidnapped individuals may be higher, with local residents estimating the count.
Northwest Nigeria has been plagued by violent gangs, often kidnapping for ransom. Similar attacks have occurred in the region, with previous victims released after ransoms were paid.
