By Mo Hanif
No fewer than 150 suspected bandits are feared to have drowned after a boat conveying them capsized in the Sabon Gida area of on Saturday evening, in what could become one of the deadliest single incidents involving armed groups in the North-West.
According to local sources, the vessel—reportedly overloaded with passengers—was attempting to cross a river when it overturned, throwing all occupants into the water. Eyewitness accounts suggest that many of those on board were unable to swim, worsening the scale of the tragedy.
Residents in the area said the group of armed men appeared to be moving in unusually large numbers, although their exact destination and mission remain unclear. The movement of such groups across waterways is not uncommon, as bandits often navigate difficult terrain to evade security operations.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation from security agencies, including the police or the military, raising caution over the exact casualty figures and circumstances surrounding the incident.
Security analysts say that if verified, the development could temporarily weaken bandit networks operating in parts of and the wider North-West region, which has been plagued by years of violent attacks, kidnappings, and cattle rustling. However, they also warn that such groups are highly mobile and capable of quickly regrouping.
The incident comes amid ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to curb insecurity across the region, where communities continue to face persistent threats despite military operations.
Further details are expected as authorities investigate and provide official clarification on the incident.