Eight security personnel were killed on Sunday after heavily armed gunmen ambushed a patrol team along the Gusau–Funtua highway in Zamfara State, escalating concerns over worsening insecurity in Nigeria’s northwest.

According to security sources, the attackers — suspected to be members of a notorious armed gang — opened fire on a joint security team, killing five officers of the Nigeria Police Force and three members of a local paramilitary group on the spot. The assailants reportedly arrived on motorcycles, taking the patrol unit by surprise.

The ambush, which occurred near a forested stretch of the highway, also left several security operatives injured, while some weapons and patrol vehicles were reportedly seized by the gunmen.

Residents said they heard heavy gunfire and explosions during the attack, forcing travelers to flee or seek shelter in nearby communities. The route has long been considered a hotspot for banditry and kidnappings, with frequent attacks targeting motorists and security forces.

Security analysts warn that the latest assault highlights the increasing boldness and firepower of criminal groups in the region. It also underscores the urgent need for improved intelligence sharing, community collaboration, and more strategic deployment of security resources.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the attack, but reinforcements have reportedly been deployed to the area to pursue the assailants and secure the highway.