05 Mar 2019 | 08:05 PM UTC
Nigeria: Gunmen kill 40 people in Zamfara state March 3 /update 4
Gunmen attack two villages in Zamfara state on March 3; at least 40 people killed
Event
On Sunday, March 3, unidentified gunmen attacked two villages in the Shinkafi and Anka local government areas (Zamfara state). According to reports, at least 40 people were killed in the attacks, with several more suffering injuries. Further such incidents are possible in the coming days and weeks.
Context
On February 28, gunmen attacked a convoy in the Shinkafi local government area (Zamfara state) at around 23:45 (local time), killing at least 29 people. Intercommunal clashes are common in Nigeria, especially between nomadic and settled communities. Such clashes have been known to break out in the central Middle Belt region (e.g. in Plateau, Bauchi, Benue, Kaduna, and Nassawara states) as well as in the south of the country; casualties are regularly reported.
Advice
Individuals in Nigeria, specifically Zamfara state, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
The security environment in Nigeria remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
