The Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, said yesterday that the security situation in Zanfara State is getting out of hand even as he promised a thorough investigation into the killing of about 40 persons last Wednesday.

The IGP, who was on a condolence visit to the palace of the Emir of Zurmi, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku Muhammad, said the perpetrators of the dastardly act would soon be brought to book.

Responding, the Emir of Zurmi, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku Muhammad, said the gunmen invaded Birane village on about 200 motorbikes, firing at residents.

He said that in the past, dozens of residents were killed in his emirate in similar attacks and, “we thought that with the assurances given by the government and security operatives, the attacks would stop.”

The emir then charged security operatives to live up to the expectations of the people by tackling the armed banditry and cattle rustling plaguing the communities.

“We are begging you to help us in protecting our lives and property. The Police Force and the federal government should provide adequate logistics to security officials,” he added.

In his speech, Governor Abdulaziz Yari, who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Bello Dankande Gamji, said he alerted the security operatives of the attack but that nothing was done to avert it. (Daily Trust)

•The Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, at the palace of Emir of Zurmi, Alhaji Abubakar Mohammed, when he paid a condolence visit over the killings in Birane village in Zamfara State.