Armed bandits have abducted two serving local government councillors and another resident during an attack in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital.

The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on Wednesday, coinciding with Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations. Witnesses said the attackers stormed the Tsauni area of Gusau and whisked their victims into the forest.

The councillors, who represent Gidan Gona and Tsibiri wards in Maradun Local Government Area, were reportedly targeted, though their names have been withheld for security reasons.

The abduction comes despite ongoing peace talks between government officials and armed groups, negotiations aimed at ending years of violence in Zamfara. The state has witnessed a series of deadly attacks in recent weeks, including the massacre of worshippers inside a mosque during evening prayers.

Confirming the incident, police spokesperson Yazid Abubakar said three people were kidnapped.

 “The command is working tirelessly to ensure the safe rescue of the captives. There is light at the end of the tunnel,” Abubakar assured, adding that security agencies are already on the kidnappers’ trail.