The Zamfara State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of eight worshippers during morning prayers in Gidan Turbe, Tsafe Local Government Area.
Those kidnapped include Liman Yahaya, Dan Garfi, Malam Damu, Bello Natsuhuwa, Yakubu Isa, Audu Minista, Yaquba Ado, and Sabi Usman.
The clarification comes after an online report claimed that 40 worshippers were abducted during the attack.
Reacting in a statement on Tuesday, the spokesperson for the command, Yazid Abubakar, debunked the figures, insisting that eight persons were abducted.
The police stated, “The attention of the Zamfara State Police Command has been drawn to a recent report alleging that 40 persons were abducted while observing morning prayers on Monday, September 15, 2025.
“Contrary to the figure reported, the incident occurred at about 05:07 hrs when suspected bandits invaded the Gidan Turbe area of Tsafe LGA and abducted eight individuals.”
Abubakar added that the police were working closely with security agencies and community stakeholders to secure the release of the victims.
He added, “The Zamfara State Police Command is actively working with other security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure the safe return of the abducted victims.
“We urge members of the public and the media to always verify information from official sources before dissemination so as not to cause unnecessary panic.”
He further assured residents of the command’s commitment to their safety, saying, “The Command remains committed to the protection of lives and property and will continue to intensify efforts towards combating all forms of criminal activities across the state.
“We appeal to residents to remain calm and report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest police station or through our emergency lines.”
The abduction comes amid a surge in attacks on places of worship across Northern Nigeria.
Just last month, PUNCH Metro reported an attack on a mosque in the Lafiagi Local Government Area of Kwara State that left one worshipper dead.
