Armed bandits have reportedly imposed a total levy of N16 million on three villages in Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State, issuing residents a six-day ultimatum to comply or face attacks.

Sources said the affected communities include Gidan Saro, Maje and Fanda Haki villages in Kekun Waje District.

It was gathered that the armed group, led by a suspected kingpin identified as Sojan Zakui, announced the levy on March 31, warning that failure to pay the demanded sums would result in violent reprisals.

According to the sources, Gidan Saro was asked to pay N5 million, Maje N6 million, and Fanda Haki N5 million, bringing the total demand to N16 million.

The bandits were also said to have sent messages through an associate, identified as Hamidu, reiterating the threat and warning residents to comply within the stipulated timeframe.

Residents are reportedly living in fear, with some community members said to be making plans to flee their homes to avoid possible attacks. (Zagazola, but headline rejigged)