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Bandits Ambush Zamfara Emir’s Entourage, Kill Palace Guard on Mayanchi–Anka Highway

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 16th, 2026.

A palace guard attached to the Abdulkadir Ibrahim Bello has died after armed bandits reportedly ambushed members of the emir’s entourage along the Mayanchi–Anka Road, highlighting renewed concerns over insecurity on highways in Nigeria’s North-West region.

According to reports cited by SaharaReporters, the attack occurred on Sunday afternoon when gunmen targeted members of the emir’s traditional guard unit, known locally as the Dogarai, while they were travelling along the road.

Security analyst Bakatsine, who shared details of the incident on social media platform X, said one of the guards identified as Jamilu sustained gunshot wounds during the ambush. The victim was reportedly known within the palace guard for carrying the emir’s ceremonial umbrella during official events.

He was rushed to Gusau General Hospital for medical treatment but later died from his injuries, according to the report.

“This tragic incident once again shows the growing insecurity along our highways and the dangers faced daily by citizens,” the security analyst wrote, commenting on the development.

As of the time of filing the report, authorities had yet to release an official statement on the incident. Attempts by SaharaReporters to obtain comments from the Nigeria Police Force in the state were unsuccessful.

The latest attack underscores persistent security challenges in Zamfara State, where communities and travellers frequently face threats from armed bandit groups operating across forested and rural areas. Over the years, residents across the North-West have endured repeated incidents of kidnappings, ambushes and violent raids on major highways and villages.

Nigerian media outlets including Daily Trust and Premium Times have consistently reported on the escalating banditry crisis in the region, with security analysts urging stronger measures to protect commuters and communities along vulnerable road corridors.

The incident adds to growing concerns about the safety of travellers on key routes across Zamfara, as calls intensify for enhanced security patrols and coordinated operations to curb bandit attacks in the state.