Two officials of Talata-Mafara Local Government Area in Zamfara State have been killed by bandits who accused them of facilitating monthly payments to the Lakurawa terrorist group, according to a report by The PUNCH.

The victims were identified as Habibu Jangebe, a councillor representing Jangebe Ward, and Alhaji Jamilu Sani, the Director of Planning for Talata-Mafara Local Government.

A local resident, who spoke to The PUNCH on condition of anonymity due to security concerns, alleged that the two officials were involved in delivering funds to Lakurawa militants as part of efforts to prevent attacks on communities within the area.

According to the source, the arrangement allegedly excluded bandit groups operating in the same region, leading to resentment among the criminals.

The source claimed that the bandits abducted the officials on May 18, 2026, while they were travelling from Jangebe to the local government headquarters to prepare for the Hajj exercise. The victims were reportedly held for 10 days before being killed.

The resident further alleged that the attackers were angered by what they viewed as preferential treatment for the Lakurawa group and had also threatened the chairman of the local government, Yahaya Yari.

However, Yari strongly denied claims that the local government had been providing financial support to Lakurawa militants.

Describing the killings as tragic and unfortunate, the chairman said neither bandits nor Lakurawa members had received any form of payment from the council.

He maintained that the Zamfara State Government, led by Governor Dauda Lawal, had adopted a policy of refusing negotiations with terrorist groups.

Yari explained that the only security-related support provided by the local government was to members of the Civilian Joint Task Force from Borno State, who are assisting security agencies in anti-banditry operations.

He added that security agencies, including the Department of State Services, were aware of the arrangement and working to tackle insecurity in the area.

The chairman also accused those spreading claims about government support for Lakurawa militants of acting as informants for bandits, warning that anyone found responsible would be investigated.

The incident highlights the persistent security challenges facing communities in Zamfara State, where bandit attacks, kidnappings and clashes involving armed groups continue despite ongoing security operations.