Suspected bandits have abducted several women in Maniya forest, Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, with some of the victims alleging sexual assault.

Sources told Zagazola on Wednesday that 39 women and girls had gone into the forest on Monday to fetch firewood but were attacked by armed men.

According to sources, 11 of the victims managed to return home the following day, while the rest remain in captivity.

The returnees reportedly said they were sexually assaulted before being released. They have since been taken to hospital for medical examination.

Efforts by security forces, local volunteers and vigilante groups are ongoing to trace the abductors and rescue the victims still being held. (Zagazola)