Nigeria: Additional security forces deployed to Zamfara state July 29 /update 1

Event

On Sunday, July 29, President Muhammadu Buhari ordered the deployment of 1000 additional security personnel to Zamfara state to combat bandits operating in the area. The force is a mix of army, air force, and police troops, who will support the local police force. Fighter aircraft have reportedly been deployed to the airport in Katsina to provide air support. President Buhari has also authorized the use of satellite surveillance. An increase in security operations is to be anticipated throughout Zamfara in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Several attacks have taken place in Zamfara in recent weeks. On July 24, armed men attacked the village of Kwaddi, located in the Zurmi Local Government area. Police arrested three people in connection to the attacks; on July 28 youths assaulted the local police station demanding the suspects be released. The following day, the speaker of the Zamfara state assembly reported that 15 people had been kidnapped in the Maradun Local Government Area on July 28.

Advice

Individuals in Zamfara state are advised to monitor the situation, remain vigilant, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

The security environment in Nigeria is complex, and is particularly concerning in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Some Western governments consequently advise against travel to certain areas of the northeast (e.g. states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Gombe, Jigawa, and Kano states) and the southern Niger Delta region (e.g. states of Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers). It is also advisable to avoid nonessential travel to Zamfara, Sokoto, Plateau, and Kaduna states. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to these areas.