The Zamfara State Police Command has confirmed that eight worshippers were abducted during early morning prayers in Gidan Turbe, Tsafe Local Government Area.
Those kidnapped were identified as Liman Yahaya, Dan Garfi, Malam Damu, Bello Natsuhuwa, Yakubu Isa, Audu Minista, Yaquba Ado, and Sabi Usman.
This clarification followed online reports that initially claimed as many as 40 worshippers were taken.
In a statement on Tuesday, police spokesman Yazid Abubakar dismissed the higher figure, explaining that the attack occurred around 5:07 a.m. on Monday when armed men stormed the area and whisked away the victims.
Abubakar said the command is working with other security agencies and community leaders to rescue those abducted.
“We urge members of the public and the media to always verify information from official sources before dissemination so as not to cause unnecessary panic,” he added.
The police assured residents of their safety, promising to intensify operations against criminal elements across the state.
The attack comes amid a worrying rise in assaults on worship centres in Northern Nigeria. Just last month, gunmen invaded a mosque in Kwara State, killing one worshipper during prayers.
