In a bid to combat rising banditry in the state, the Zamfara State Government has taken the decision to indefinitely shut down 11 cattle markets. The closure of these markets comes after security reports revealed that bandits were using them as a platform to sell stolen cows.
The state Commissioner for Information, Munnir Haidara, confirmed that the affected markets include Tsafe and Bilbis markets in the Tsafe Local Government Area, Jangebe market in the Talata-Mafara Local Government Area, and Wuya market in the Anka Local Government Area. Other markets that have been closed include Magamin Diddi market in the Maradun Local Government Area, Galadi market in the Shinkafi Local Government Area, Mada market in the Gusau Local Government Area, and Sabon Birnin Danali in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area. Additionally, Kokiya, Chigama, and Nasarawar Godel markets, all in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area, have also been shut down.
Haidara emphasized that the decision to close these markets was based on credible security reports that indicated the bandits were using them to sell off stolen cattle. The state government has instructed security agents to ensure strict compliance with the closure and to arrest anyone found violating the order.
“The state government finds it absolutely necessary to close down these markets due to security reports that the bandits are patronising these markets to sell off their rustled cows,” stated Haidara. He further urged the people of the state to adhere to the order and support the government’s efforts to eradicate banditry in the region.
It is important to note that the closure of these markets aims to disrupt the bandits’ illicit activities and prevent them from profiting from their criminal acts. The Zamfara State Government remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens by taking decisive actions against criminal elements.
