Criminal gangs, also called “bandits” in Nigeria, have reportedly raised a red flag on a mountain in Taraba State’s Zing area, indicating a return to the region. Local resident James Samuel told Daily Trust that the bandits had previously occupied the area last year but were driven out by local hunters and security forces.
“The bandits occupied the area during the same period of harvesting last year but were dislodged after weeks of battle with local hunters and security agents, and now they have started returning,” Samuel said.
According to Samuel, residents began noticing bandit movement about nine days ago, leading locals to alert hunters. “As I am talking to you, the bandits are on top of the mountain and they even hoisted a red flag, and we alerted our hunters and they have engaged the bandits in a battle,” he added.
Adamu Dantala, Taraba’s Hunters Association chairman, confirmed the bandits’ return. However, Taraba Police Command spokesperson SP Usman Abdullahi stated that no official report of bandit movement had been received, adding that security personnel are monitoring the area closely.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
